I'll weave a chaplet on this mournful day!* Bind it with Cypress, Myrtle, Willow, Bay— With Rue, and Thyme — and deadly Nightshade too— For in thy path of life these thickly grew: With flowers of prouder growth, and fadeless bloom, I'll deck the Poet's and the Hero's tomb. His Harold, Corsair, sweet Abydos' strain, His Giaour and Lara shed around his name Poetic glory, and immortal fame! Bard of our Isle, and Noblest Son of Song, To thee deep offerings of the heart belong— But, thou hast fled our fitful scenes of woe! May thy great spirit range the blest among, And all Heaven's glories be it thine to know.
* The Anniversary of Lord BYRON'S Death — April 19.