XXIX
Reading edition
SWEETER than are the flowers of spring, that bloom In all their fragrance underneath the skies; Fairer than all those glories that arise From earth, to give a delicate perfume Unto the airs, that by their birth assume New life and joyousness; I would surmise To be thy charms, which frequently surprise My soul with smiles that banish every gloom. I would that I, one half as easily, Might pluck thee from thy temporary bed Of earthly pleasure, and possess the flower Of thy young life, to keep it worthily Within the garden of my heart, and wed Thy true love to my own far greater power!