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The early poems of John Clare

1804-1822: General editor Eric Robinson: Edited by Eric Robinson and David Powell: Associate editor Margaret Grainger

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SONNET

[Gritford with pleasing feelings do I leave]

Gritford with pleasing feelings do I leave
Thy seat of hospitality where art
& nature mingling lovley scenes doth weave
Sensations of wild sweetness to impart
& sooth & gladden the spectators heart
Meandering gratifyd thro walks that wind
Oer rude romantic bridges where the eye
Oft makes a curious pause & brings to mind
The hermit times of pilgrimage gone bye
Greensward & water gloomy shade & skye
Trees shrubs & flowers the muse enrapturd met
All blended round with sweetest taste & care
Nor while such scenes can charm will she forget
The kind reception she experiencd there