English poem
To Anna Matilda
by Hannah Cowley (1743–1809)
To THEE a Stranger dares address his theme! To Thee, proud Mistress of Apollo's lyre; One ray emitted from thy golden gleam, Prompted by LOVE, wou'd "set the World on fire."
Adorn then LOVE, in fancy-tinctur'd vest, Camelion like, anon of various hue; By "Penserosa," and "Allegro" drest— Such Genius claim'd, when she Idalia drew.
I see the Pencil on the canvas shine! REYNOLDS admires!—in Science then proceed; The name of Poet, Painter, both are thine, We view the speaking painting—as we read. Paris.