SONNET XXXII.
TO MISS W---.
15th Oct. 1806.
[_]
On her proposing a Visit to the Family of the
Author.
Did Fortune smile propitious on our lot,
Or in our home refinement's magic spell
Detain those graces you have woo'd so well,
Glad should we be to hail you at our cot!
But honest Pride and Truth, that scorn the blot
Of false pretension, urge, tho' loath, to tell
Of thoughts and cares inelegant, that dwell
In mediocrity's most favoured spot.
Then why should we with selfish aim invite
A friend we love, where anxious cares alarm?
Rather tell her with fascination's charm,
To thrid the mazy labyrinth of delight;
Circled by Fancy's rainbow-winged swarm
That live but in the sunbeam of her sight.