Written on the anniversary of her marriage. <br /> <br />ON this blest day may no dark cloud, or shower, <br />With envious shade the Sun's bright influence hide! <br />But all his rays illume the favour'd hour, <br />That saw thee, Mary!--Henry's lovely bride! <br />With years revolving may it still arise, <br />Blest with each good approving Heaven can send! <br />And still, with ray serene, shall those blue eyes <br />Enchant the husband, and attach the friend! <br />For you fair Friendship's amaranth shall blow, <br />And love's own thornless roses bind your brow; <br />And when--long hence--to happier worlds you go, <br />Your beauteous race shall be what you are now! <br />And future Nevills through long ages shine, <br />With hearts as good, and forms as fair as thine!<br /><br />Charlotte Smith<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/sonnet-xx-to-the-countess-od-a/