XXX. Addressed to my Brother 1805.
XXX.
Addressed to my Brother
1805. [1]
Brother beloved! if health shall smile again
Upon this wasted form, and fevered cheek;
If e'er returning vigour bids these weak,
And languid limbs their gladsome strength regain;
Well may thy brow the placid glow retain5
Of sweet content, and thy pleased eye may speak
Thy conscious self-applause; But should I seek
To utter what this heart can feel, Ah! vain
Were the attempt! Yet kindest friends, as o'er
My couch ye bend, and watch with tenderness10
The being whom your cares could even restore
From the cold grasp of death; say can you guess
The feelings which this lip can ne'er express?
Feelings deep fixed in grateful memory's store!
