THE RIVER DUDDON
XXV
THE RIVER DUDDON
METHINKS ’twere no unprecedented feat Should some benignant Minister of air Lift, and encircle with a cloudy chair, The One for whom my heart shall ever beat With tenderest love;–or, if a safer seat Atween his downy wings be furnished, there Would lodge her, and the cherished burden bear O’er hill and valley to this dim retreat! Rough ways my steps have trod;–too rough and long For her companionship; here dwells soft ease: 10 With sweets that she partakes not some distaste Mingles, and lurking consciousness of wrong; Languish the flowers; the waters seem to waste Their vocal charm; their sparklings cease to please.