Sonnet L

By Charlotte Smith

FROM THE NOVEL OF CELESTINA.

FAREWELL, ye lawns!--by fond remembrance blest,

As witnesses of gay unclouded hours;

Where, to maternal friendships' bosom prest,

My happy childhood past among your bowers.

Ye wood-walks wild!--where leaves and fairy flowers

By Spring's luxuriant hand are strewn anew;

Rocks!--whence with shadowy grace rude nature low'rs

O'er glens and haunted streams!--a long adieu!

And you!--O promised Happiness!--whose voice

Deluded Fancy heard in every grove,

Bidding this tender, trusting heart, rejoice

In the bright prospect of unfailing love:

Though lost to me--still may thy smile serene

Bless the dear lord of this regretted scene.