HYMN VI.

To the Nightingale.

E very night, from even till morn,

L ove's Chorister amid the thorn,

I s now so sweet a singer!

S o sweet, as for her Song, I scorn

A pollo's voice and finger.

B ut, Nightingale! sith you delight

E ver to watch the starry night,

T ell all the stars of heaven!

H eaven never had a star so bright

A s now to earth is given!

R oyal Astræa makes our day

E ternal, with her beams! nor may

G ross darkness overcome her!

I now perceive, why some do write,

"N o country hath so short a night

A s England hath in summer."