In a Forest

Stranger ! whose steps have reach'd this solitude,
Know that this lonely spot was dear to one
Devoted with no unrequited zeal
To Nature. Here, delighted, he has heard
The rustling of these woods, that now perchance
Melodious to the gale of summer move ;
And underneath their shade on yon smooth rock,
With gray and yellow lichens overgrown,
Often reclined ; watching the silent flow
Of this perspicuous rivulet, that steals
Along its verdant course, — till all around
Had fill'd his senses with tranquillity.
And ever soothed in spirit he returned
A happier, better man. Stranger ! perchance,
Therefore the stream more lovely to thine eye
Will glide along, and to the summer gale
The woods wave more melodious. Cleanse thou then
The weeds and mosses from this letter'd stone.