As once ('twas in ASTRAEA'S reign)
The vernal pow'rs renew'd their train,
It happen'd that immortal LOVE
Was ranging thro' the spheres above,
And downward hither cast his eye
The year's returning pomp to spy,
He saw the radiant God of day
Lead round the globe the rosy MAY;
The fragrant AIRS and genial HOURS
Were shedding round him dews and flow'rs;
Before his wheels AURORA past,
And HESPER'S golden lamp was last.
But, fairest of the blooming throng,
When HEALTH majestic mov'd along
All gay with smiles, to see below
The joys which from her presence flow,
While earth inliven'd hears her voice,
And fields, and flocks, and swains rejoice;
Then mighty LOVE her charms confess'd,
And soon his vows inclin'd her breast,
And, known from that auspicious morn,
The pleasing CHEARFULNESS was born.