THE TOILET. FROM "THE RAPE OF THE LOCK," CANTO I. AND now, unveiled, the toilet stands displayed, To that she bends, to that her eyes she rears; TO IANTHE, SLEEPING. FROM "QUEEN MAB": I. How wonderful is Death! Hath then the gloomy Power, Must then that peerless form As breathing marble, perish? Which the breath of roseate morning Chaseth into darkness? And give that faithful bosom joy, Yes! she will wake again, Although her glowing limbs are motionless, And on their lids, whose texture fine The bosom's stainless pride, Around a marble column. A gentle start convulsed Ianthe's frame : Her veiny eyelids quietly unclosed; Moveless awhile the dark blue orbs remained. She looked around in wonder, and beheld Henry, who kneeled in silence by her couch, Watching her sleep with looks of speechless love, And the bright-beaming stars That through the casement shone. PERCY BYSSHE SHELLEY. |