XII. Written at a Convent.

Portrait of William Lisle Bowles
William Lisle Bowles 1762–1850

IF chance some pensive stranger, hither led, His bosom glowing from majestic views, The gorgeous dome, or the proud landscape's hues, Should ask who sleeps beneath this lowly bed -- 'Tis poor Matilda! To the cloister'd scene, A mourner, beauteous and unknown, she came, To shed her tears unseen; and quench the flame Of fruitless love: yet was her look serene As the pale midnight on the moon-light isle -- Her voice was soft, which e'en a charm could lend, Like that which spoke of a departed friend, And a meek sadness sat upon her smile! Now here remov'd from ev'ry human ill, Her woes are buried, and her heart is still.

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