The Poetry Corner

A Love-Song.

By Henry Austin Dobson

(XVIII. CENT.) When first in CELIA'S ear I poured A yet unpractised pray'r, My trembling tongue sincere ignored The aids of "sweet" and "fair." I only said, as in me lay, I'd strive her "worth" to reach; She frowned, and turned her eyes away,-- So much for truth in speech. Then DELIA came. I changed my plan; I praised her to her face; I praised her features,--praised her fan, Her lap-dog and her lace; I swore that not till Time were dead My passion should decay; She, smiling, gave her hand, and said 'Twill last then--for a DAY.