FROM A CONCHOLOGIST

Were I a murm'ring ocean shell Pressed close against your ear, My constant whisperings would tell A story sweet to hear. I'd make the message from the sea Love's tidings on the shore, And I would woo with words so true That you could ask no more.

So if some silvern nautilus Lay close beside your cheek, And you should hear a language dear Unto the heart I seek, You'll know within the simple shell That murmurs o'er and o'er I send to you a love more true Than e'er was breathed before.