Classic Poem

High on a rock, coëval with the skies,
A temple stands, reared by immortal powers
To chastity divine! Ambrosial flowers,
Twining round icicles, in columns rise,
Mingling with pendent gems of orient dyes!
Piercing the air, a golden crescent towers,
Veiled by transparent clouds; while smiling Hours
Shake from their varying wings—celestial joys!
The steps of spotless marble, scattered o'er
With deathless roses, armed with many a thorn,
Lead to the altar. On the frozen floor,
Studded with tear-drops petrified by scorn,
Pale vestals kneel the goddess to adore,
While Love, his arrows broke, retires forlorn.