Amanda

Along the forest's path, where cool and green
Were the many shades the forest presses
Close, I found my wandering steps taking
Me far among the sweet and living trees.

And as I walked, the sounds did blend; the leaf
Songs, wind sighs and the rivulet. And yet
Another's voice, most clear, did cross and weave
All into a harmonious quartet.

There, gathering humble fruits and flowers
A lady, singing just above a hush,
Did hold my attention in her power
And to my heart did bring a mighty blush.

At once, my love to her was set as stone,
But hid, for she was Nature's Queen enthroned.