The Vale of Arden

Heaven upon earth! for overhead, 
Seen through the oak's young leaf, the sky 
Looks pale; it lavishly hath shed 
Its deepest blue, to glorify 
This wood, and pave an azure way 
Meet for the virgin foot of May, 
Heaven upon earth [...] here recline 
Her wood-nymphs, quaffing bluebell-breath, 
Making her beauty more divine ; 
From their bright eyes she borroweth 
Fresh radiance, and their lips rejoice 
To lend more musk to her voice, 
Heaven upon earth ! for love is here ; 
The greenwood rings with mated birds ; 
The bluebell-laden atmosphere 
Is rich with passion beyond words ; 
Arrayed in heaven the very sod 
Cries to the heart that Love is God. 

High on her woodland throne 
The beautiful White Queen ! 
White clouds over her blown ; 
White may-blossom flown 
To her gentle lap, in a bower 
Of tender hawthorn green. 
But whiter than cloud or flower 
Her brow, and the quiet sheen 
Of her maiden soul, and the power 
Of her beauty pure and serene. 

Sunbeams from the warm blue sky 
Seek on earth a warmer hue, 
Where the woodland-sanctuary 
Flames with living blue. 

Glancing light and wayward shade 
Frolic through the dappled trees, 
Weaving o'er the woodland-glade 
Fitful harmonies ; 

Till they meet the blue of eyes 
Fuller yet of wilful glee, 
Livelier with swift surprise 
And daring raillery. 

Yet are all her lightsome games 
But the holiday-attire 
Of her heart, elusive flames 
From a soul of fire.