Classic Poem

TO A WESTMINSTER SCHOLAR, WHO WAS AT WINDSOR DURING THE WINTER RECESS .

While you thro' Windsor's green retreat,
 Now bend your thoughtful way,
And contemplate the muse's seat
 On this thy Natal Day,—

O! may the tuneful maids attend,
 To harmonize your lay,
And each her kind assistance lend
 On this thy Natal Day.

May Phœbus, deck'd in radiant light,
 Dart down a beaming ray
Of inspiration, while you write,
 On this thy Natal Day.

See, Fame o'er Windsor's lofty towers,
 A laurel wreath display!
Just gather'd from the verdant bowers,
 On William's Natal Day.

And, hark! I hear the trumpet sound,
 I hear the goddess say,
“By Fame shall Albion's prince be crown'd,
 On this his Natal Nay.

To Neptune's palace, where he dwells,
 I'll wing my rapid way;—
There, sportive Tritons sound their shells,
 To hail his Natal Day.

The sea-god gives a splendid ball,—
 He bids his court be gay,
And dance in his transparent hall,
 On William's Natal Day.”

Now o'er your head the goddess flies,—
 She drops a sprig of bay,—
And, “Take it, gentle youth,” she cries,
 “On this thy Natal Day.

For not to royalty alone,
 Will Fame attention pay,—
To me thine humble merit's known,
 On this thy Natal Day.

Soon thou shalt find me, favor'd youth,—
 On learning's hill I'll stay,
With virtue, honor, wisdom, truth,
 To bless thy Natal Day.”

She's silent, and pursues her flight,—
 May you her words obey,
And give your friends supreme delight
 On ev'ry Natal Day.