_Q. Mab._ Spirits of Dreamland, once again we meet, Our round of nightly revel to repeat. O'er earth, when locked in sleep's warm, close embrace, Since time began, the genius of our race Has had the power fearlessly to sway The visionary sceptre all obey. The mighty monarch, who, with tyrant frown, Upholds the burden of his weighty crown; The fierce-browed warrior who relentless slays, And, bathed in blood, his vows to Moloch pays; Haughty and lowly, powerful and weak,— Under mysterious spells our guidance seek. Sweet sister spirits, Dreamland opens wide; Yet justice guards it well on every side. Over the pure we rosy visions throw: Around the base a sea of troubles flow. Ere forth you glide to ply your happy arts, Your queen would learn the secrets of your hearts; Who hie to sport, with mischievous intent, And who on graver ministries are bent. _Sootha._ I've an old miser under watchful care, With sordid soul, of generous impulse bare; Who nightly feasts, with avaricious eyes, Where treasured gold in rare profusion lies; Who revels o'er his fast-increasing store, Chuckles with glee, yet wistful sighs for more; Starvation's image, in a den so bare, It seems a fit abode for dark despair. Into his sleep I glide, disturb his rest, Rattle his treasure, till, with fear possessed, As frightful visions thick and thicker press, He trembling wakes, his idol to caress. _Oblivia._ Fair queen, a toiling student I enchain, And with my art refresh his weary brain: Up wisdom's heights I lead him by the hand, And show him visions of the promised land; Fair fields of learning spread before his gaze, For him the realm of science set ablaze, Ope Fame's grand temple, Honor's scroll unroll, And tell the triumphs of the trusting soul, Till hope re-animates the wasting fire With earnest zeal and conquering desire. _Somna._ I guard a trusting maiden, young and fair, Whom Love has tangled in his silken snare; Spread rosy dreams amid her sleeping hours, And lead her captive through a land of flowers; Adorn her hero with true manly pride, And of the future ope the portal wide, While smiles of pleasure o'er her sweet face creep, And blissful words betray her secret deep. With rare delight her day-dreams I repeat, And make her young life's round of love complete.