Around the proud saloon reflect
Each face the mirrors there;
With diamonds, pearls, and gold bedeck'd,
Light dance the gentle fair;
And with their witching grace and air,
O'er thousand lovers holding sway,
Their vows and plaudits bear away.
Lovely is that! I one day too,
When childhood scarce above,
Through balls and banquets would pursue
The object of my love.
And from the young beloved I strove,
As magic treasure, to obtain
A passing look, or smile to gain.
But now by cares subdued, and bound
By languor and disease,
Than gilded halls, these plains around
Me more the night hours please:
To the gay dance preferring these,
The calm asylum they supply,
To meditate beneath this sky.
O! ever shine on me the stars,
In a clear heaven as now!
And as my Maker that avers,
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