On receiving a picture of an Italian Countess
Oh lovely semblance of a lovelier face!
Upon thy classic contour as I gaze,
My eager thought flies through dividing space;
And to the living picture tribute pays.
I see that brow with thought and goodness crowned,
I see those eyes with deep affection shine;
I hear the language from those sweet lips sound,
By poets made immortal and divine.
I would that I might follow my free thought,
And see this gentle stranger face to face;
For such fair spirits I have ever sought,
And such would ever hold in my embrace.
Source: Wikisource