X. COMPOSED IN THE VALLEY NEAR DOVER, ON THE DAY OF HERE, on our native soil, we breathe once more. Europe is yet in bonds; but let that pass, XI. SEPTEMBER, 1802. NEAR DOVER. INLAND, within a hollow vale, I stood; And saw, while sea was calm and air was clear, The coast of France-the coast of France how near! Drawn almost into frightful neighbourhood. I shrunk ; for verily the barrier flood Was like a lake, or river bright and fair, A span of waters; yet what power is there! Even so doth God protect us if we be Virtuous and wise. Winds blow, and waters roll, Strength to the brave, and Power, and Deity; Yet in themselves are nothing! One decree Spake laws to them, and said that by the soul Only, the Nations shall be great and free. XII. THOUGHT OF A BRITON ON THE SUBJUGATION OF Two Voices are there; one is of the sea, One of the mountains; each a mighty Voice: There came a Tyrant, and with holy glee Thou fought'st against him; but hast vainly striven: And neither awful Voice be heard by thee! XIII. WRITTEN IN LONDON, SEPTEMBER, 1802. O FRIEND! I know not which way I must look For comfort, being, as I am, opprest, To think that now our life is only drest For show; mean handy-work of craftsman, cook, Or groom !—We must run glittering like a brook In the open sunshine, or we are unblest : The wealthiest man among us is the best : No grandeur now in nature or in book Delights us. Rapine, avarice, expense, This is idolatry; and these we adore: Plain living and high thinking are no more: The homely beauty of the good old cause Is gone; our peace, our fearful innocence, And pure religion breathing household laws. XIV. LONDON, 1802. MILTON! thou should'st be living at this hour: pen, Of stagnant waters: altar, sword, and And give us manners, virtue, freedom, power. So didst thou travel on life's common way, |