University of Virginia Library

SUNSET IN THE FOREST.

Come now unto the Forest, and enjoy
The loveliness of nature. Look abroad
And note the tender beauty, and repose
Of the magnificent, in earth and sky.
See what a radiant smile of golden light
O'erspreads the face of heaven; while the west
Burns like a living ruby, in the ring
Of the deep green horizon. Now the shades
Are deepening round the feet of the tall trees,
Bending the head of the pale blossoms down
Upon their mother's bosom, where the breeze
Comes with a low sweet hymn and balmy kiss,
To lull them to repose. Look now, and see
How every mountain, with its leafy plume,
Or rocky helm, with crest of giant pine,
Is veil'd with floating amber, and gives back
The loving smile of the departing sun,
And nods a calm adieu.
Hark! from the dell
Where sombre hemlocks sigh unto the streams,
Which with its everlasting harmony
Returns each tender whisper; what a gush
Of liquid melody, like soft, rich tones
Of flute and viol, mingling in sweet strains
Of love and rapture, float away tow'rd heaven.
'Tis the Ædolco from her sweet place,
Singing to nature's God the perfect hymn
Of nature's innocence.
Does it not seem
That earth is list'ning to that evening song?
There's such a hush on mountain, plain, and streams.
Seems not the sun to linger in his bower
On yonder leafy summit, pouring forth
His glowing adoration unto God,
Blent with that evening hymn? while every flower
Bows gracefully, and mingles with the strain
Its balmy breathing.
Have you look'd on aught
In all the panoply, and bustling pride
Of the dense city with its worldly throng,
So soothing, so delicious to the soul,
So like the ante-chamber of high heaven,
As this old forest, with the emerald crown
Which it has worn for ages, glittering
With the bright halo of departing day?
While from its bosom living seraphim,
Are hymning gratitude and love to God.