106. EBB to Edward Moulton-Barrett (father)

As published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 1, 94.

Die natali patris

Carissimi.

May 28th 1821 [sic, for 1820]. [1]

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Vos sacræ castæque Divæ

Supplice prosequor votas!

Audite! accipe precem!!

Tu pater carusne horâ

Candidâ esse ne tuum

Lætite ardorque vitæ

Filia delect invocat

Tibi dulcissime rerum!!!

Elizabeth

Publication: None traced.

Source: Copy in Mary Moulton-Barrett’s hand in “Poems by EBB,” Berg Collection.

Translation:

[Because of irregularities in syntax, this text poses problems. The following translates the spirit, if not the exact letter, of EBB’s verse.]

“On the birthday of my dearest father.

May 28th 1821.

As a suppliant I offer prayers to you,

holy and pure goddess!

Listen! receive this prayer!!

You, surely my dear father,

at this special time

That is truly yours, be happy

The light of your life, your delighted daughter,

Asks for you the sweetest of things!!!”

1. Although clearly dated 1821, EBB’s mother has copied this verse in “Poems by EBB” immediately following the preceding letter and before two odes by Bro to his father dated 1820—one in Latin, one in English (SD343).

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