Book 2 — LINES TO W. L.[236:1]
Reading edition
LINES TO W. L.[236:1]
WHILE HE SANG A SONG TO PURCELL'S MUSIC
While my young cheek retains its healthful hues, And I have many friends who hold me dear, L——[236:2]! methinks, I would not often hear Such melodies as thine, lest I should lose All memory of the wrongs and sore distress 5 For which my miserable brethren weep! But should uncomforted misfortunes steep My daily bread in tears and bitterness; And if at Death's dread moment I should lie With no belovéd face at my bed-side, 10 To fix the last glance of my closing eye, Methinks such strains, breathed by my angel-guide, Would make me pass the cup of anguish by, Mix with the blest, nor know that I had died!
1797.
FOOTNOTES:
LINENOTES:
Title] To Mr. William Linley MS. 1797: Sonnet XII, To W. L.——[236:2]! Esq., while he sung &c. An. Anth.: To W. L. Esq. &c. S. L. 1828, 1829: Lines to W. Linley, Esq. 1893.
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L——[236:2]!] Linley! MS. 1893.
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at] by An. Anth.
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Methinks] O God! An. Anth.