Classic Poem

Unshrouded heaven! when wert thou so bright?
When were thy vapours rolled so far aside?
When did thy Virgin-Queen — Earth's satellite —
So round and mellow o'er thy bosom glide?
When didst thou look so lovely in the tide?
Or thy resplendent gems — Night's diamond eyes —
Bedeck themselves in their rich garbs of pride,
And show their Maker's mind so greatly wise?
Thy fragrant breath upon its pillow lies, —
For thou hast lately poured thy vengeance out,
Nor thunders roll, nor vivid lightning flies,
Nor dark clouds lash the plains, nor frightened shout
Of forest-fowl, re-echoes forth from thee,
Pure azure vault of gay tranquillity!