DEATH AND THE GAY CHARIOTEER. 271

Of tissued blossoms, in nature's loom

Wove gorgeous, and bright with radiant bloom.

The gleams of an alabastrian pile,With pillared form of classic style,Shone down the opening vista far,Like the softened light of Neptune's star;When the midnight winds part the fleecy cloud,And she walks forth in her beauty and splendourproud.

It was the bright magic palace rearedBy Pleasure, to ensnare the idle and vain,—

A temple it seemed with glory ensphered,But Death dwelt there in her fatal train !

Young Cytheron before the portal stood,—

Then entered with enraptured eye,When round him poured a rainbow flood

Of dazzling light, while harmonyAngelic came on his ravished ears,Rich-toned as the music of the spheres !The palace court with pillars was hemmedOf flaming carbuncle, and gemmed