Sonnet XI

GREEN avenue, whose shadow dim and sweet
Pleasantly shelter'd me in days of yore,
Dear lost companion, whose slow-pacing feet
Then wander'd with me on that moss-paved floor,--
Still, like a natural temple, spring those trees,
Their column'd stems high-arching over-head?
Still dost THOU love, while sighs the murmuring breeze,
At Summer eve that velvet path to tread?
Then, gentle friend, in whose unworldly eyes,
And on whose calm, serene, expressive brow,
The light of many a prayer reflected lies,
As thou with Heaven didst constant commune know,--
Though, in this world, divided we must be,
Kneel in that quiet spot, and pray to God for ME!