To Harriet. [1]

1.

Harriet! to see such Circumspection, In Ladies I have no objection Concerning what they read; An ancient Maid's a sage adviser, Like her, you will be much the wiser, In word, as well as Deed.

2.

But Harriet, I don't wish to flatter, And really think 't would make the matter More perfect if not quite, If other Ladies when they preach, Would certain Damsels also teach More cautiously to write.

THERE WAS A TIME, I NEED NOT NAME. [i]

1.

There was a time, I need not name, Since it will ne'er forgotten be, When all our feelings were the same As still my soul hath been to thee.

2.

And from that hour when first thy tongue Confess'd a love which equall'd mine, Though many a grief my heart hath wrung, Unknown, and thus unfelt, by thine,

3.

None, none hath sunk so deep as this-- To think how all that love hath flown; Transient as every faithless kiss, But transient in thy breast alone.

4.

And yet my heart some solace knew, When late I heard thy lips declare, In accents once imagined true, Remembrance of the days that were.

5.

Yes! my adored, yet most unkind! Though thou wilt never love again, To me 'tis doubly sweet to find Remembrance of that love remain. [ii]

6.

Yes! 'tis a glorious thought to me, Nor longer shall my soul repine, Whate'er thou art or e'er shall be, Thou hast been dearly, solely mine.

June 10, 1808. [First published, 1809]