Poem by Anna Seward

Sonnet 41. Since dark December shrouds the transient day

 INVITATION TO A FRIEND.

Since dark December shrouds the transient day,
    And stormy Winds are howling in their ire,
    Why com'st not THOU, who always can'st inspire
    The soul of cheerfulness, and best array
A sullen hour in smiles?—O haste to pay
    The cordial visit sullen hours require!—
    Around the circling walls a glowing fire
    Shines;—but it vainly shines in this delay
To blend thy spirit's warm Promethean light.
    Come then, at Science', and at Friendship's call,
    Their vow'd Disciple;—come, for they invite!
The social Powers without thee languish all.
    Come, that I may not hear the winds of Night,
    Nor count the heavy eave-drops as they fall.

1. Sonnet 25. Fortunate Vale! exulting Hill! dear Plain!
2. Sonnet 84. While one sere leaf, that parting Autumn gilds
3. Sonnet 30. That song again!—its sounds my bosom thrill
4. Sonnet 28. O, Genius! does thy Sun-resembling beam
5. Sonnet 52. Long has the pall of Midnight quench'd the scene

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