HON. MISS MERCER.— HOPNER.

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!