ON MAY MORNING.

Now the bright morning star, day’s harbinger, Comes dancing from the east, and leads with her The flow’ry May, who from her green lap throws The yellow cowslip and the pale primrose. Hail, bounteous May! that dost inspire Mirth and youth and warm desire; Woods and groves are of thy dressing, Hill and dale doth boast thy blessing. Thus we salute thee with our early song, And welcome thee, and wish thee long. —John Milton.