WHEN FATE in ruthless rage assail'd my breast, <br />And Heaven relentless seal'd the harsh decree; <br />HOPE, placid soother of the mind distress'd; <br />To calm my rending sorrowsgave me THEE. <br /> <br />In all the charms of innocence array'd, <br />'Tis thine to sprinkle patience on my woes; <br />As from thy voice celestial comfort flows, <br />Glancing bright lustre o'er each dreary shade. <br /> <br />Still may thy growing REASON's light divine, <br />Illume with joy my melancholy bow'rs; <br />Still may the beams of sacred VIRTUE shine, <br />To deck thy spring of youth with thornless flow'rs; <br />So shall their splendid attributes combine, <br />To shed soft sunshine on MY WINTRY HOURS.<br /><br />Mary Darby Robinson<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/sonnet-to-my-beloved-daughter/
