Bleak Winter’s force that made thy blossom dry;

For he being amorous on that lovely dye

That did thy cheek envermeil, thought to kiss,

But killed, alas, and then bewailed his fatal bliss.

Milton.

ON THE DEATH OF A FRIEND’S CHILD.

If Death

More near approaches, meditates, and clasps

Even now some dearer, more reluctant hand,