University of Virginia Library

Search this document 
Poems

By Felicia Dorothea Browne [i.e. Hemans]

expand section


89

LINES TO MAJOR COX,

ON RECEIVING FROM HIM AN ELEGANT BOX OF COLOURS.

Tho' youthful ardour fires my glowing heart,
To copy Nature with enchanting Art;
Ah! still I fondly strive with effort vain,
The pencil's flowing graces to attain.
But when Instruction guides my roving feet,
To reach the Muse of Painting's lofty seat;
Where Genius learns in magic colours warm,
To join Expression's fire, and Beauty's form;
If then 'tis mine with energy to trace
The varied charms of Nature's blooming face;
To dress the mimic flowers in rainbow dyes,
Bright as the blushes of the orient skies;

90

In glowing hues to bid the landscape live,
Or to the figure animation give;
Oh! then, my pencil's tribute justly due,
Sweet Gratitude shall consecrate to you.