[37] From the edition of 1809. The 1786 edition has the note, "Written 1770."
[38] Shenstone.—Ed. 1786.
[39] Sylvan.—Ed. 1786.
[40] Dolly.—Ed. 1786.
"But swift as changing goblets pass,
They bless the virtues of the glass."—Ed. 1786.
THE DYING ELM[42]
Sweet, lovely Elm, who here dost grow
Companion of unsocial care,
Lo! thy dejected branches die
Amidst this torrid air—
Smit by the sun or blasting moon,
Like fainting flowers, their verdure gone.
Thy withering leaves, that drooping hang,
Presage thine end approaching nigh;
And lo! thy amber tears distill,
Attended with that parting sigh—
O charming tree! no more decline,
But be thy shades and love-sick whispers mine.