The Poetry Corner

Hon. Miss Mercer. - Hopner (Sketches In The Exhibition, 1805)

By William Lisle Bowles

Oh! hide those tempting eyes, that faultless form, Those looks with feeling and with nature warm; The neck, the softly-swelling bosom hide, Nor, wanton gales, blow the light vest aside; For who, when beauties more than life excite Silent applause, can gaze without delight! But innocence, enchanting maid, is thine; Thine eyes in liquid light unconscious shine; And may thy breast no other feelings prove, Than those of sympathy and mutual love!