BY JOHN MILTON
John Milton (1608-1674): One of the greatest of English authors. He is the noblest type of the Puritan. "The Defense of the English People," "Tractate on Education," Areopagitica, and his other prose pamphlets are models of stately English. "Paradise Lost," "Paradise Regained," "Comus," "L"Allegro," and "Il Penseroso" are his principal poems.
Now the bright morning star, day"s harbinger, Comes dancing from the east, and leads with her The flowery May, who from her green lap throws The yellow cowslip and the pale primrose.
Hail, bounteous May, that dost inspire Mirth and youth and warm desire! Woods and groves are of thy dressing, Hill and dale doth boast thy blessing. Thus we salute thee with our early song, And welcome thee, and wish thee long.
Love thyself last; cherish those hearts that hate thee: Corruption wins not more than honesty.
Still in thy right hand carry gentle peace,
To silence envious tongues; be just, and fear not.
(SHAKSPERE)