Dearest !—Affection long has set apart
This day for special worship. At Love's shrine,
Breathing warm prayers to good Saint Valentine,
To-day shall kneel full many a throbbing heart:
Gladly would I too play the votary's part,
Gladly pour forth the fervent flattering line,
If the good saint would graciously incline
To hear my prayer and smile upon my art.
In place of these, or with them, dearest friend,
Accept this book—'Twas built in hopeful hours,
By youthful hearts essaying here to blend
The bard's light labours with the patriot's powers,—
Not uselessly,—the Isle from end to end
Already smiles with hardy native flowers!