Nature with beauteous tints illumes
The fields and groves of budding Spring,
Loud voices from afar to bring;
And my glad Muse its song resumes—
The larch has donned its rosy plumes,
And hastes its emerald beads to string.
Richard Wilton.
BENEDICITE.
O all ye Green Things on the Earth,
Bless ye the Lord in sun and shade;
To whisper praises ye were made,
Or wave to Him in solemn mirth.
For this the towering pine had birth,
For this sprang forth each grassy blade;
O all ye Green Things on the Earth,
Bless ye the Lord in sun and shade.
Ye wayside weeds of little worth,
Ye ferns that fringe the woodland glade,
Ye dainty flowers that quickly fade,
Ye steadfast yews of mighty girth:
O all ye Green Things on the Earth,
Bless ye the Lord in sun and shade!
Richard Wilton.
RONDELETS.
"Which way he went?"
I know not—how should I go spy
Which way he went?
I only know him gone. "Relent?"
He never will—unless I die!
And then, what will it signify
Which way he went?
Say what you please,
But know, I shall not change my mind!
Say what you please,
Even, if you wish it, on your knees—
And, when you hear me next defined
As something lighter than the wind,
Say what you please!