And a new-born shame inspires
A regret that truly measures
Her ignoble pleasures.
Dante! thy "New Life" has shown
Love's eternal miracle;
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Can I for my past atone,
That love may be possible?
That pure love of thine, great poet,
Can I learn to know it?
Lady! when serener thought,
And a life, from self set free,
Have with gracious influence wrought
A love-worthy soul in me;
Lady! may some soul like thine
Then awaken mine.