May Day with the Muses by Robert Bloomfield
page 13 of 58 (22%)
page 13 of 58 (22%)
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From Lusitanian mountains, dear to fame,
Whence GAMA steer'd, and led the conquering way To eastern triumphs and the realms of day. A thousand minor tasks fill'd every hour, 'Till the sun gain'd the zenith of his power, When every path was throng'd with old and young, And many a sky-lark in his strength upsprung To bid them welcome.--Not a face was there But for May-day at least had banish'd care; No cringing looks, no pauper tales to tell, No timid glance, they knew their host too well,-- Freedom was there, and joy in every eye: Such scenes were England's boast in days gone by. Beneath the thorn was good Sir Ambrose found, His guests an ample crescent form'd around; Nature's own carpet spread the space between, Where blithe domestics plied in gold and green. The venerable chaplain waved his wand, And silence follow'd as he stretch'd his hand, And with a trembling voice, and heart sincere, Implored a blessing on th' abundant cheer. Down sat the mingling throng, and shared a feast With hearty welcomes given, by love increased; A patriarch family, a close-link'd band, True to their rural chieftain, heart and hand: The deep carouse can never boast the bliss, The animation of a scene like this. At length the damask cloths were whisk'd away, |
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