[Page 47]

SONNET.

INVITATION TO A FRIEND.

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

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Title (in Source Edition): SONNET. INVITATION TO A FRIEND.
Author: Anna Seward
Themes:
Genres: sonnet

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Seward, Anna, 1742-1809. Llangollen Vale, with Other Poems. London: Printed for G. Sael, No. 192, Strand, 1796, p. 47.  (ESTC T96723) (Page images digitized by University of California Libraries.)

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