ON AN ANCIENT OAK.
FROM THE GREEK OF ANTIPHILUS.
Hail, venerable boughs, that in mid sky
Spread broad and deep your leafy canopy!
Hail, cool, refreshing shade, abode most dear
To the sun-wearied traveler, wand’ring near!
Hail, close inwoven bow’rs, fit dwelling-place
For insect tribes, and man’s imperial race!
Me, too, reclining in your green retreat,
Shield from the blazing day’s meridian heat.
Translation of J. H. Merivale.