Poem by George Pope Morris

Lisette

When Love in myrtle shades reposed,
 His bow and darts behind him slung;
As dewey twilight round him closed,
 Lisette these numbers sung:
"O Love! thy sylvan bower
I'll fly while I've the power;
Thy primrose way leads maids where they
Love, honor, and obey!"

"Escape," the boy-god said, "is vain,"
 And shook the diamonds from his wings:
"I'll bind thee captive to my train,
 Fairest of earthy things!"
"Go, saucy archer, go!
I freedom's value know:
Begon, I pray—to none I'll say
Love, honor, and obey!"

"Speed, arrow, to thy mark!" he cried—
 Swift as a ray of light it flew!
Love spread his purple pinions wide,
 And faded from her view!
Joy filled that maiden's eyes—
Twin load-stars from the skies!—
And one bright day her lips DID say,
"Love, honor, and obey!"

1. National Anthem
2. The Bacchanal
3. Twenty Years Ago
4. Silent Grief
5. Lines on a Poet

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