Sweet Poet of the Woods – Charlotte Smith

Sweet poet of the woods a long adieu!

Farewell, soft minstrel of the early year!

Ah! ’twill be long ere thou shalt sing anew,

And pour thy music on the night’s dull ear,’

Whether on spring thy wandering flights await,

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Or whether silent in our groves ye dwell,

The pensive muse shall own thee for her mate,

And still, protect the song, she loves so well.

With a cautious step, the love-lorn youth shall glide

Thro’ the lone brake that shades thy mossy nest;

And shepherd girls, from eyes profane, shall hide

The gentle bird, who sings of pity best.

For still thy voice shall soft affections move,

And still, be dear to sorrow, and to love!