University of Virginia Library


69

SONNET TO AN ARTIST, EMPLOYED IN NEW-MODELLING THE PLEASURE-GROUNDS OF MY LORD ------

Ah! what avails, fair Artist, to diffuse
So bright a verdure o'er the swelling lawn;
To guide the stream by gradual windings drawn
Down the rich dale, or paint the wood with hues
That seem to kindle, as amid the dews
They dance, to catch the crimson of the dawn?
Ah! what avails, that many a nimble fawn
Wantons beneath the foliage, if the Muse
Inspire not the possessor, fond to dart
The eye of sympathetic pleasure round?

70

Alas! the poor possessor hath no heart!
Here lies in silence hush'd the untrodden ground,
Tho' nature boast the elegance of art;
Unless when vulgar notes to revelry resound!
 

To relish the beauties of nature, it is necessary to possess a good heart.