Fair Hope with lucent light in her glad eyes, Fleet as Diana, through the meadow speeds; Nor dewy rose nor asphodel she heeds, For lo! unwonted radiance in the skies Bids her not pause. The silv'ry shimmer lies 'Mid blooming vistas, whence the pathway leads To heights aerial. The glow recedes As panting Hope toils on, while awed surprise Fills her sweet glances; will the vision fade Ere she can reach it? Nay, 'tis lovelier far, Rarer perspectives open to her gaze; Then hasten on, expectantly, glad maid! The splendor still will tremble there afar; Yet count this quest the holiest of thy days. |