This edition is the property of the editors. It may be copied freely by individuals for personal use, research, and teaching (including distribution to classes) as long as this statement of availability is included in the text. It may be linked to by internet editions of all kinds.
Scholars interested in changing or adding to these texts by, for example, creating a new edition of the text (electronically or in print) with substantive editorial changes, may do so with the permission of the publisher. This is the case whether the new publication will be made available at a cost or free of charge.
This text may not be not be reproduced as a commercial or non‐profit product, in print or from an information server.
Available at: http://www.lib.ucdavis.edu/English/BWRP/Works/DacrCHours2.sgm
Cite this Item
"Hours of Solitude. A Collection of Original Poems. Volume II." In the digital collection British Women Romantic Poets. https://name.umdl.umich.edu/DacrCHours2. University of Michigan Library Digital Collections. Accessed May 19, 2024.
Pages
WILL‐O'‐WISP.
This elfin sprite, as ancient legends say,Was fairy‐born; on him they did bestowThe art to lead poor villagers astray,For an offence some thousand years ago.
This elfin sprite with meteor lantern hiesClose to the edge of slimy pool or lake;Still like an anxious guide before them flies,Nor, till some mischief done, does them forsake.
This elfin sprite have many tried to seize,Yet in the rash attempt have suffer'd sore;With mockery of himself he will them teize,Which grasping hard, they see him still before.
descriptionPage 40
Then on to fairy land, in gay despight,Upon a zephyr will this elfin ride;And all the fays do at his lantern lightTheir little torches, and the feast provide.
Now seated round the tulip's ample bowl,To jocund elves he doth his wiles betray;In mirthful glee the hours unheeded roll,Till dawn just peeps, then swift they hie away.
email
Do you have questions about this content? Need to report a problem?
Please contact us.