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THE DAUGHTER OF THE HALL.
Then Fancy flew on burnished wing an aërial race with Time,
O'er many a strange and brilliant land, through many a glowing clime;
Then like a bright and wandering bird, that answered to my call
Would fold its soft and gleaming plumes upon the ancient Hall.

Old Time wore on; there dawned a day that brought me to your feet,
Oft have we lived it o'er since then, and still the theme is sweet!
Your sisters sighed, "True love was all, with or without a purse,"
And once for all your brother said, that Emma might do worse.

The good old Squire; I see him yet! the squire of days begone,
Who had a laugh for every jest, the loudest for his own,
"My seven fair daughters! shall I find a lord apiece for all?
A worthy youth, our vicar's son, and welcome at the Hall!"

Your Lady-mother smoothed her brow, and smiled her stately smile
And made some show of courtesy to mine within the aisle,