Design and Performance

They float before my soul, the fair designs Which I would body forth to Life and Power, Like clouds, that with their wavering hues and lines Pourtray majestic buildings:—Dome and tower, Bright spire, that through the rainbow and the shower Points to th' unchanging stars; and high arcade Far-sweeping to some glorious altar, made For holiest rites:—meanwhile the waning hour Melts from me, and by fervent dreams o'erwrought, I sink:—O friend! O link'd with each high thought! Aid me, of those rich visions to detain All I may grasp; until thou seest fulfill'd, While time and strength allow, my hope to build, For lowly hearts devout, but one enduring fane!