The Oak

MARK well yon tree, that shades the neighb'ring plain,
And looks the ancestor of this domain!
Beneath the slowly-waving branches hoar,
(Meet temple for a vow) this morn I swore,
To rear solicitous bright Friendship's flow'r,
And fence it from bleak Time's destructive pow'r:
To guard with holy care the tender frame,
And on the fragrant leaves inscribe his name,
Whose presence gilds with smiles this mild retreat,
Within whose breast the virtues love to meet:
Who woos coy science to frequent his scene,
And bids good nature gambol o'er the green:
I spoke the word—The solemn branches bow'd,
As conscious of the sacred deed I vow'd.