Sonnet Ii: High On A Rock

High on a rock, coaeval with the skies, A Temple stands, rear'd by immortal pow'rs To Chastity divine! ambrosial flow'rs Twining round icicles, in columns rise, Mingling with pendent gems of orient dyes! Piercing the air, a golden crescent tow'rs, Veil'd by transparent clouds; while smiling hours Shake from their varying wings--celestial joys! The steps of spotless marble, scatter'd o'er With deathless roses arm'd with many a thorn, Lead to the altar. On the frozen floor, Studded with tear-drops petrified by scorn, Pale vestals kneel the Goddess to adore, While Love, his arrows broke, retires forlorn.