Classic Poem

When from the poet's brain fair Arden's glades
 Were peopled with the lightsome folk we know,
 A shade of discontent was seen to grow
Upon his brow, as he through long decades
In vision saw this loveliest of his maids
 By beardless boys enacted, and her show
 Of maiden grace obscured and hidden so
In guise of youths half-won from boyish trades.

Soon changed the vision, and through centuries far
 A group of women fair he then did see,
  Whose hearts, one after other, were beguiled
 By some Orlando's youth and bravery,
And in the throng, and radiant as a star,
  On thee , the mighty Master, looking, smiled!