TO MISS ATKINSON,
Reading edition
ON THE EXTREME DIFFIDENCE WHICH SHE DISPLAYS TO STRANGERS.
Just as a fawn, in forest shade, Trembling to meet th’ admiring eye, I’ve seen thee try to hide, sweet maid! Thy charms behind thy modesty. Thus too I’ve seen at midnight steal A fleecy cloud before the wind, And veil, tho’ it could not conceal, The brilliant light that shone behind.