SALMONIA. [FIRST DA*. 



Yet in thy pages there doth lie 

 So much of quaint simplicity, 



So much of mind, 



Of such good kind, 

 That none need be afraid, 

 Caught by thy cunning bait, this book, 

 To be ensnared on thy hook. 



Gladly from thee, I'm lured to bear 



With things that seem'd most vile before, 

 For thou didst on poor subjects rear 

 Matter the wisest sage might hear. 

 And with a grace, 

 That doth efface 



More laboured works, thy simple lore 

 Can teach us that thy skilful lines, 

 More than the scaly brood confines. 



Our hearts and senses, too, we see, 

 Rise quickly at thy master hand, 

 And, ready to be caught by thee, 

 Are lured to virtue willingly. 

 Content and peace, 

 With health and ease, 

 Walk by thy side. At thy command 

 We bid adieu to worldly care, 

 And joy in gifts that all may share. 



Gladly, with thee, I pace along, 

 And of sweet fancies dream ; 

 Waiting till some inspired song, 

 Within my memory cherish'd long, 

 Comes fairer forth, 

 With more of worth, 

 Because that time upon its stream 

 Feathers and chaff will bear away, 

 But give to gems a brighter ray. 



C.C. 1812. 



