Composed 1819.—Published 1819
[I observed this beautiful nest on the largest island of Rydal Water.—I. F.]
One of the "Miscellaneous Sonnets."—Ed.
The imperial[363] Consort of the Fairy-king
Owns not a sylvan bower; or gorgeous cell[364]
With emerald floored, and with purpureal shell
Ceilinged and roofed; that is so fair a thing[365]
As this low structure, for the tasks of Spring,
Prepared by one who loves the buoyant swell
Of the brisk waves, yet here consents to dwell;