University of Virginia Library


99

INSCRIPTION ON A PANE OF GLASS.

[_]

The attribution of this poem is questionable.

Wise was the man, with emblematic hand,
Who first on this transparent plate of sand
The name of Woman, Nature's fairest Queen,
Display'd, engraven with the diamond keen.—
Well knew he that the Glass and Jewel join'd
Were truest emblems of her Face and Mind.—
In lovely Woman (for from Woman flows
The chief, the truest blessing life bestows)
A thousand charms, a thousand faults, unite;
As frail as Glass, tho' as the Diamond bright.