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Polished each shell on outward side, 

 By amorous kissings of the tide 



Long loving and caressing ; 

 While, pure as orient pearl within, 

 Gleaming, as dying dolphins 1 skin, 



Its death in light expressing. 



Around her, fine as silk- worm s thread, 

 And soft as downy plumage shed, 



To shield its tender young, 

 By th Orcadian bird, and green, 

 As is the polished em rald s sheen, 



Profuse her tresses hung. 



Patent she lay upon the shore ; 

 Beauteous the scene, and fit the hour 



For pleasure and for love ; 

 Yet, sad at heart ; with many a sigh, 

 Do grief and deep despondency 



Her saffron bosom move. 



Moistened with tears, each pearly shell, 

 That formed her solitary cell 

 More iridescent glows ; 



