MEMORIALS OF A TOUR IN ITALY, 1837
XXI. AT FLORENCE–FROM MICHAEL ANGELO
MEMORIALS OF A TOUR IN ITALY, 1837
RAPT above earth by power of one fair face, Hers in whose sway alone my heart delights, I mingle with the blest on those pure heights Where Man, yet mortal, rarely finds a place. With Him who made the Work that Work accords So well, that by its help and through his grace I raise my thoughts, inform my deeds and words, Clasping her beauty in my soul’s embrace. Thus, if from two fair eyes mine cannot turn, I feel how in their presence doth abide 10 Light which to God is both the way and guide; And, kindling at their lustre, if I burn, My noble fire emits the joyful ray That through the realms of glory shines for aye.