INTRODUCTION. 3 



The charms of Nature have ever enchanted 

 the sensitive soul of the poet, and inspired 

 his verse. Courtier says, in his " Pleasures of 

 Solitude." 



" Though yet no cynic, still I must prefer 

 The works of Nature to the whims of Art : 

 Those speak their God — these oft from God deter; 

 Those to the soul true health and peace impart, 

 These oft pervert the head, and oft corrupt the heart." 



Blackmore also invites us to this study : 



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Your contemplation further yet pursue ; 

 The wondrous world of vegetables view ! 

 See various trees their various fruits produce, 

 Some for delightful taste, and some for use. 

 See sprouting plants enrich the plain and wood, 

 For physic some, and some design'd for food. 

 See fragrant flowers, with different colours dyed, 

 On smiling meads unfold their gaudy pride." 



And Thomson must have induced many 

 an admiring reader to a contemplation of 

 the wonders and wisdom of the Almighty 

 Maker ; — who, 



— " when young Spring protrudes the bursting gems, 

 Marks the first bud, and sucks the healthful gale 

 Into his freshen'd soul ; her genial hours 

 He fully enjoys ; and not a beauty blows, 

 And not an opening blossom breathes in vain." 



b2 



