Poems on Several Subjects, Song V

See down Maria's blushing cheek The tears of soft compassion flow; Those tears a yielding heart bespeak— A heart that feels for others' woe. May not those drops, that frequent fall, To my fond hope propitious prove, The heart that melts at Pity's call Will own the softer voice of love.

Earth ne'er produced a gem so rare Nor wealthy ocean's ample space So rich a pearl—as that bright tear That lingers on Maria's face. So hangs upon the morning rose The chrystal drop of heav'n refin'd, A while with trembling lustre glows— Is gone—and leaves no stain behind.