The poetical works of John Nicholson ... Carefully edited from the original editions, with additional notes and a sketch of his life and writings. By W. G. Hird |
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IMPROMPTU. |
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 | The poetical works of John Nicholson |  |
IMPROMPTU.
Did my estates extend for miles around,And in my mansion all things great abound;
Did gold enrich me, or did rubies shine;
Were greatest titles, wealth, and honour, mine;
Though crystal rivers through my pastures run,
Reflecting back the glories of the sun;
Were beauteous gardens mine, and ev'ry breeze
Brought fragrant odours from the spicy trees;
Did high majestic hills the landscape grace,
And finest scenes adorn great Nature's face,
In sweet variety of hill and dale;
The crystal fountain and the fruitful vale;
And cloak'd in ivy were the ancient towers,
And sweet enchantment us'd her utmost powers:—
Nor my estates, my titles, wealth, nor fame,
The breath of honour, nor the greatest name;
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Nor crystal rivers, winding through the dale;
Nor all that Nature, all that Art can give,
Nor merriest life a mortal e'er can live,
Can make me bless'd when this short life shall end,
Unless my Maker prove to be my friend.
| The poetical works of John Nicholson | |