Shapes and Shadows — Gertrude

_Gertrude.

_ When first I gazed on GERTRUDE'S face, Beheld her loveliness and grace;

Her brave gray eyes, her raven hair, Her ways, more winsome than the kiss _Spring_ gives the flowers; her smile, that is Brighter than all the summer air Made sweet with birds:--I did declare,-- And still declare!

--there is no one, No girl beneath the moon or sun, So beautiful to look upon!

And to my thoughts, that on her dwell, Nothing seems more desirable-- Not OPHIR gold nor ORIENT pearls-- Than seems this jewel-girl of girls.

_Lydia.

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