WITH DR. AIKIN'S “WISH,” WHICH THEY EXPRESSED A DESIRE TO HAVE A COPY OF <br /> <br />Not this the Wish in life's first, gayest page, <br />Becomes your opening years and golden prime; <br />Not these the hopes should your soft thoughts engage, <br />Whose buds of joy are yet uncropt by Time. <br />When blood begins to creep, when fled is youth, <br />And nature verges toward lethargic rest, <br />Gardens and groves the languid mind may soothe, <br />And fire-side comforts satisfy the breast. <br /> <br />For you, quick Fancy spreads her brightest stores, <br />Paints high the colour of each opening joy, <br />Enthusiastic hope to rapture soars, <br />And untried scenes the busy thoughts employ. <br />O may her soft enchantment late prolong <br />The fond romance of innocence and youth! <br />To elder life no happier hours belong, <br />No richer cordial dealt by hoary Truth. <br />Nor fear, while you the gaudy dream pursue, <br />Life's serious aim and sober joys to miss: <br />While fluttering pulses dance, and scenes are new, <br />Your Wish is transport, and your Hopes are bliss.<br /><br />Anna Laetitia Barbauld<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/to-the-miss-websters/
