English poem
INSCRIPTION on a TREE in the centre of a Grove
by Hugh Downman (1740–1809)
The Hamadryads, who inform this grove, Are pure, nor underneath their sheltering boughs Harbour a thing profane; you they invite, Ye virtuous Indolent, who scorn to act In the corrupted scenes of public life, The friends of heart-felt joy; with open arms Receive Benevolence: hear the Muse pour Her artless song well-pleas'd; and in their shade Bid Love's blithe form sport all the summer long.