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We stood together in that tranquil scene Of moon-light loveliness;-its silent spell Stole o'er the spirit with a soft'ning pow'r, Which might have hush'd the wildest heart to peace. Beneath us far the sleeping waters lay, In beautiful repose: their silv'ry gleam Form'd a sweet contrast with the deep, dark, mass Of shade upon their shores. The murm'ring sound Of far-off voices came upon the breeze; And the clear music of the vesper-chimes, --Like a sweet hymn of farewell to the day,-- Stole on the ear, awakening memories, Which only start to life in such an hour. There were young Roses blushing in the light Of the pale moon-rays, and their fragrant breath Floated around us, shedding on the air All its most fresh, and rich deliciousness. Long years have fleeted by !--again the hush Of Ev'ning, is upon the wave, and hill ;-- Again, a glitt'ring track of liquid light Brightens the gliding river; and the earth Is garlanded with summer flow'rs, as when I last beheld the spot:--all nature bears The aspect which it wore in that same hour, When, with delighted gaze, I ling'ring dwelt Upon its quiet beauty. Time hath left No traces of his touch on aught save me; But o'er my breast, and brow, his passing wing Hath swept with chilling, and destructive power, Since that remember'd moment. I am chang'd As the green foliage, when the autumn winds Have sear'd its hue, and wither'd up its life. Oh! ages of the heart, which fade the frame, And blight the mind of man, pass lightly o'er The bosom of the universe, which still, In undecay'd magnificence, and grace, With its calm grandeur, seems to mock the proud And restless race, who deem the world was fram'd But for their petty sovereignty--and yet, Are in themselves more frail than human hope, The reed to which they cling.