RESPONSE A MON AMI MICHEL ST-PIERRE
[ANSWER TO MY FRIEND MICHEL ST. PIERRE]

When lightning's ceased, and heaven more beauteaous then
Anew her robe of purest azure dons;
When, a smile with hope, the orb that lights our way
Throws far his veil, and forth sends radiance bright;
To hail the blest return of dawning day,
The blithesome nightingale sings loud his song;
Thus, since thy muse today awakes anew,
And charming sounds have reached my raptured ear,
To me 'tis sweet to think thy courage bold
Has conquered baleful wrath of envious Fate.
Now qualms no more, nor silence gloomy, cold,
May happiness, dear friend, succeed thy woe.
Dash from thy heart the gloom-infested past,
That thou by valiant striving could'st redeem;
Lo in thy songs extol this victory great;
Your return to the virtues crowns thee with glory.

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