Classic Poem

Whilst busy Memory fondly strays
O'er griefs and joys of other times
And many a much loved form pourtrays
And many a beauteous scene displays
Of former years and distant climes.

The burning blush will sometimes rise
For youths first wild romantic schemes
Which now, when Time hath made me wise
Appear if viewed by Reasons eyes
But idle and fantastic dreams.

For I have sought the silent wood
And many a live long summer day
Wrapt in enthusiastic mood
Supremely wise divinely good
Within it's deepest covert lay.

There formed vain schemes of happiness
For life's gay morn or cloudless even,
Encouraged worth relieved distress
Heard every tongue my virtues bless
And smiled mid a domestic heaven!

But tho' these follies flush my cheek
Whene'er the past is called to view
Yet still — (I dare my thoughts to speak)
Though knaves or fools should call me weak
I mourn them false yet love them too!

This honest truth I tell full free,
What — if the heartless crowd condemn?
Let not that steal one sigh from thee
They only strive to laugh at me,
While I, sincerely pity them!