To a Pupil

Brother! we left the port of our new birth
At different times; yet hath our coasting been
Along a lovely quarter of the earth,
Where the calm bays are blue, and sea-banks green.
Now, be it cloudy time or shining weather,
Our barks are anchored for a while together.
Somewhat in river mouths have I been taught
With inland winds for teachers, — somewhat too,
Belike less heeded, from old volumes brought
By angel hands to give me nature's clue.
By gentlest incantations round thee thrown,
Come, let me tinge thy spirit with mine own, —
With more of sweetness, lest life's toils should press
Thine over-docile heart and masculine loveliness.