It is most refreshing to see that this group is quite thought-provoking and also tolerant. Some would not respond so articulately. Thanks for your interesting conversation. You may think me unsensitive but why (in Foster's context) should "dark Virginny bride" be offensive? I find it to be quite empathetic and a sincere affectionate display. Who even today considers dark skin to be a slur (it's often a complement). Am I to think that whites should not be poetical about the saddness and conditions of another race?