THE FAIRY'S SEARCH. 15 



And heighten'd charms it sought to hide. 



A cluster of white Roses lay 



Upon her bosom's snowy vest, 



And well the graceful things became 



Their beauteous place of rest. 



In truth it was a holy sight 

 To see that youthful maiden there, 

 With heart so fond and hopes so bright, 

 With form and soul alike so fair, 

 Breathing in accents, firm though low, 

 Affection's sweetest, holiest vow. 

 Ah ! wedlock is a hallow'd ray 

 That cheers us on our pilgrim way ; 

 That adds to bliss a brighter beam 

 And softens even sorroAv's dream. 

 That sacred fetter of the heart 

 Is dear in Hymen's early hours. 

 When Earth still wears its Eden-liglif 

 And life is yet a feast of flowers ; 

 But better, loftier, holier far 

 Is the fond tie in later years. 

 When it becomes the changeless star 

 That guides us thro' " a vale of tears." 

 Then, like the rain-bow's brilliant dye's 

 It brightens e'en the stormiest skies. 



The vows are said ; the twain are one ; 



The bridal band' has turn'd away ; — 



Like some bright dream, when sleep is gone, 



Fades now the vision gay. 



The Fairy, who, with tearful eye, 



Had mark'd the solemn rite^, 



