Walden's Miscellaneous Poems :: :: University of Virginia Library

Dear Miss: If not mistaken in the person whom I think you are, which can hardly be so, I would like very much to create a correspondence between us, if it would be in accordance with your wishes.

Please consider this proposal and give me an answer at your pleasure.

For thls my pen has long displayed,
E'er long its been delighted,
To know thou art a fair young maid
Whom no one yet has slighted.

From year to year it onward glides,
I glory in its winging;
It whispers through the graceful slides
Virginia oft is singing.

Will it not gladden every heart,
Through rhythm and its measure,
And give the young an upward start,
And thrill each nerve with pleasure?

Therefore, if thou'll accept this line—
Think not that I am hasty;
For had I now a second's time,
I 'd say that I am tasty.

Remember that I 'm full of pride,
Of pity and compassion,

And she who lingers by my side
Should like my style and fashion.

My pride will never lead to shame,
Nor down to degradation,
While it shall be my highest aim
To elevate my nation.

For thou canst see the stars are bright,
And worlds around are swelling,
Therefore it will be thy delight
To overlook my spelling.

Therefore, unfold each fleeting thought,
Seek well for the intention,
Which nature's hand alone has wrought
In words I need not mention.

Kind Miss, to thee no more I 'll say,
Nor add unto my measure,
Except to write without delay
When it may be your pleasure.

ISLAY WALDEN.