Classic Poem

ON LAURA PERILOUSLY ILL

This gentle spirit that must now depart
Before her time, called to the lovelier realm,
If, as must be, hosannas overwhelm,
She will be guest in Heaven's holiest chart.
There, between Venus and Mars' glittering dart
If she remain, the sun will wear a film,
Because, as bright birds cluster on an elm,
The blessed souls will swarm to see that heart
Of infinite beauty. If the fourth fierce nest
She choose, the other three will fade beside,
And she alone in loveliness abide;
Nor even in the fifth sphere may she rest;
Should she soar higher still, Jove surely must
With all stars else in utter gloom be thrust.