‘ And scandal added’ ——‘ Hold!’ the Miller cried,
And, in an instant, stood at Phoebe's side;
For he observed, while list'ning to the tale,
Her spirits faulter'd, and her cheeks turn'd pale;
Whilst her clasp'd hands descended to her knee
She sinking whisper'd forth,‘ O God,‘ tis he!
The good Man, though he guess'd the pleasing truth,
Was far too busy to inform the Youth;
But stirr'd himself amain to aid his Wife,
Who soon restor'd the trembler back to life.
Awhile insensible she still appear'd;
But,‘ O my Brother!’ was distinctly heard:
The astonisht Youth now held her to his breast;
And tears and kisses soon explain'd the rest.
Past deeds now from each tongue alternate fell;
For news of dearest import both could tell.
Fondly, from childhood's tears to youth's full prime,
They match'd the incidents of jogging time;