Volume 3 — SONNET XXXI. TO THE DEPARTING SPIRIT OF AN ALIENATED FRIEND.

O, ever dear! thy precious, vital powers Sink rapidly!—the long and dreary night Brings scarce an hope that morn’s returning light Shall dawn for thee!—In such terrific hours, When yearning fondness eagerly devours Each moment of protracted life, his flight The rashly-chosen of thy heart has ta’en Where dances, songs, and theatres invite. Expiring Sweetness! with indignant pain I see him in the scenes where laughing glide Pleasure’s light forms;—see his eyes gaily glow, Regardless of thy life’s fast ebbing tide; I hear him, who should droop in silent woe, Declaim on actors, and on taste decide!