One day, before the day of days, to spend!
All round the quay, and by the river’s side,
Shall be a scene of glory for the bride.
We’ll have a RACE, and colours will devise
For every boat, for every man, a prize; 160
But that which first returns shall bear away
The proudest pendant—Let us name the day!”
They named the day; and never morn more bright
Rose on the river, nor so proud a sight;
Or, if too calm appear’d the cloudless skies,