Classic Poem

We wandered hours amid a lovely scene,
Which every moment brought a fresh surprise;
So beautiful the flowers, the grass so green,
It seemed like Paradise unto our eyes.
Is this all nature's work? or has man's art,
By nature taught, but perfected her plan?
So blended are they each in every part,
We know not nature's work from work of man.
What level lawns! what vistas opening fine
Through shady groves! with forest-fringed lake;
Which, in one whole, do every charm combine,
And soul and sense, as willing captives, take;
Which a new sense of nature's beauty give,
That in the grateful mind will ever live.