: When ideas have any relation whatever, they are attractive of each other in the mind; and the perception of any object naturally, leads to the idea of another, which was connected with it either in time or place, or which can be compared or contrasted with it. Hence arises our attachment to inanimate ob jects; hence also, in some degree, the love of our country, and the emotion with which we contemplate the celebrated scenes of antiquity. Hence a picture directs our thoughts to the original: and, as cold and darkness suggest forcibly the ideas of heat and light, he, who feels the infirmities of age, dwells most on whatever reminds him of the vigour and vivacity of his youth.

The associating principle, as here em

ployed, is no less conducive to virtue than to

happiness; and, as such, it frequently discovers itself in the most tumultuous scenes of life. It addresses our finer feelings, and gives exercise to every mild and generous propensity.

Not confined to man, it extends through all animated nature; and its effects are peculiarly striking in the domestic tribes.

With magic tints to harmonize the scene.

Still'd is the hum that thro' the hamlet broke,

When round the ruins of their ancient oak

The peasants flock'd to hear the minstrel play,

And games and carols clos'd the busy day.

Her wheel at rest, the matron charms no more

With treasur'd tales, and legendary lore.

All, all are fled; nor mirth nor music flows

To chase the dreams of innocent repose.

All, all are fled; yet still I linger here!

What pensive sweets this silent spot endear?

Mark yon old Mansion, frowning thro' the trees,

Whose hollow turret wooes the whistling breeze.
That casement, arch'd with ivy's brownest shade,
First to these eyes the light of heav'n convey'd.

The mouldering gateway strews the grass-grown court,

Once the calm scene of many a simple sport;

When nature pleas'd, for life itself was new,

And the heart promis'd what the fancy drew.

See, thro' the fractur'd pediment reveal'd,

Where moss inlays the rudely sculptur'd shield,

The martin's old, hereditary nest.

Long may the ruin spare its hallow'd guest!

As jars the hinge, what sullen echoes call! Oh haste, unfold the hospitable hall!

That hall, where once, in antiquated state,

The chair of justice held the grave debate.

Now stain'd with dews, with cobwebs darkly hung,

Oft has its roof with peals of rapture rung;

When round yon ample board, in due degree,

We sweeten'd every meal with social glee.

The heart's light laugh pursued the circling jest ;
And all was sunshine in each little breast.

'Twas here we chas'd the slipper by its sound;
And turn'd the blindfold hero round and round.
'Twas here, at eve, we form'd our fairy ring;

And Fancy flutter'd on her wildest wing.