In happier days, these banks along
I rov'd, and Laura was my song;
This purpled plain, and winding dale,
Have witness'd kind affection's tale;
And oft' this rill, and shady grove,
Have heard the eloquence of love.
Ah! sweet recesses, arching glades,
Ye pathful wilds and cooling shades,
Ye blue hair'd nymphs, who revels keep,
Embosom'd in the crystal deep;
All mark'd how blisses crown'd the day,
When Love and Laura led the way.
Ah! mark how now the minutes go,
How chang'd from happiness to woe.