XXV.
Reading edition
FAREWELL TO A PLACE ON THE BORDERS.
Lochmaben! I from thee must part, 'Tis destined so to be; Thy lovely lochs, dear to my heart, I never more may see.
The heaven of May is mirror'd clear Within thy waters deep; So shall my soul with loving care Thine image ever keep.
I've seen Edina's rocky walls, Her palaces and bowers; I've gazed on London's lofty halls, And monumental towers.
In yon green isle towards the west, I've roamed without control; And many a wild, romantic coast Has charm'd my inmost soul.
But aye to me the sunniest rays Have thrown their sweetest gleams Where Bruce was born, and summer days Inspired my youthful dreams.
The water lilies there shall rest, And minnows round them play; The coot shall build her floating nest, When I am far away.
But ah! no more thy streams and glens Shall bless my sight, Lochmaben; Farewell, farewell, lochs, woods, and fens— Farewell, farewell, Lochmaben!