;^:^K^^^«^pt^:-*K:«?«-^r«^^'*^''^^ N».iti..-^utf*i<»'Trw*'*b»rfwrv;t>-tfi /'f^'*^^^*^'^-^-"^rj*-'*^'*^^ff''**^TT*^^ h m. '52 [OBnteretr at S)tationers' f^all] THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE, BY SIR JAMES BLAND LAMB, Bart. WITH THE ORIGINAL DESIGNS BY AN ILLUSTRIOUS PERSONAGE. ENGRAVED BY P. W. TOMKINS, Historical Engraver to her late Majesty Queen Charlotte. Hontron: PRINTED, FOa THE PROPRIETOR, BY T. BENSLEy, Crane-court, Fleet-street. SOLD BY R.JENNINGS, No 2, POULTRY; AND P. W. TOMKINS, N° 53, NEW BOND STREET. 1823. TO THE READER. It has been suggested to the Author, by some eminent literary friends, that he ought not to withhold from his readers a short composition, on the subject of the fol- lowing Poem, by the late Dean of Westminster, which, though highly flattering to himself, is no less creditable to the talents and taste of that distinguished scholar. In complying with this suggestion, he presumes to hope that he shall not be charged with an undue degree of vanity, in giving, with the Dean's Poem, the Letter by which it was accompanied, as, without the latter, the purport of the former might not, perhaps, be clearly understood. o -« 6 LETTER FROM THE REV. DR. VINCENT TO SIR J. B. BURGES. DEAR aiR, As it is difficult to praise a poet without flattery, I will confine my thanks to you for the communication of your poem to deeds, rather than words. In the first place, I read the whole with pleasure, and it is the first allegorical poem I ever read from beginning to ending in my life. Secondly, I buy no books of expense, but I have bought the plates to your's j and, thirdly, I will take your subject for a Copy of Verses at the Election, which I will execute in the best manner my attention and abilities wDl allow. And now (according to the oriental formula of epistolary correspondence) what can I say more ? Begging you, therefore, to accept my thanks and those of Mrs. V. I have only to wish, that your muse may have found as gracious a reception from the fair Elizabeth, as from Your obliged and faithful Servant, W. Vincent. Dca/i'i, Yard. VERSES WRITTEN FOR THE ELECTION AT WESTMINSTER SCHOOL, BY THE MOST REV. WILLIAM VINCENT, D.D. DEAN OF WESTMINSTER. Nunc scio quid sit Amor. Lusus docta leves, roseique Cupidinis ortum Pinxisse artifici, dulcis Eliza, manu, Salve, progenies regum ! Tibi, nympha, corollam, Artis Apell^ae gloria prima, fero. En ubi disrupto liquidum super aethera nimbo Nascentis pueri membra pusilla jacent. Ut primum erigitur, pedibus titubantibus segre Fertur, et explorat pro\ddus ante ^^am. Mox humeros sentit geminis decorarier alis, Continue)que levem tendit in alta fugam. Deserit inde polum, reperitque his advena terris Arcumque, et pucro spicula digna deo ; Et reperit, fertur dum laetos Erro per agros, Venanti praedam cor juvenile datum. Confestim telo pueriliter instruit arcum ; Heu, missa incassum ! fracta sagitta cadit. Quid facial ? Dum saxa iterum rupesque pcrcrrat, En gemina in summo stat nova praeda jugo. Qu6 tamen ascendat, qu6 stagna patentia circum Foetentesque gravi tranet odore lacus ? Spes subit. — Ille dese vectus sublimior alls Spicula per medium cor (nee aberrat) agit. Quas igitur lauros, quos non parat inde triumphos, Quantusque in curru victor ad astra redit ? Haec opera depicta tua, nitidissima nympha ! Vidimus. Ah sit Hymen, sit tibi faustus Amor ! For the accommodation of those fair readers who maj' condescend to honom- this vohime with a perusal, it has been judged expedient to annex a Translation of the foregoing elegant composition. Hail, Royal Maiden ! by whose plastic hand Were Cupid's birth and first achievements plann'd Illustrious leader of the graphic train ! To accept from me this votive chaplet deign. From a disparting cloud, 'mid skies serene, Lo ! where the form of new-born Love is seen. Gently himself he rears ; with footsteps weak See him his way as yet uncertain seek. Soon from each shoulder burst forth pinions light Forthwith aloft he wings his airy flight ; High heav'n he quits, and, 'lighting here below, Celestial arms receives, his dart and bow. While o'er the plains his pastime he pursues. Two Hearts, his prey legitimate, he views. His bow he bends — a fruitless aim he takes — Harmless the arrow flies — it falls — it breaks. "NMiat may he do } — Straight on a tow'ring rock Th' insulting Hearts his idle efforts mock. 6 Vain seem his efforts. How the wide morass, The foul mephitic vapour, can he pass ? Hope lends her aid. By her upborne he flies ; Both Hearts, transfix'd, become his glorious prize. What laurell'd trophies now, what triumphs high Await the victor in his native sky ! Such was the talc, fair Nymph ! thine art supplied. May Love and Hymen o'er thy fate preside ! J. B. L. LIST OF ENGRAVINGS. No. Stanza. Page. Vignette. 1. Birth 8 5 2. Going alone 12 7 5. Finds his Bow and Arrow 25 13 4 . Trying his Arrow 26 14 5. Dreams there is a World 29 15 6. Going in search of the World 41 21 7. Alighting on the World 50 26 Vignette. 8. Mistakes his Mark 12 33 9. In vexation breaks his Bow 13 33 10. Meets a Heart 19 36 11. Weeps for the Loss of his Bow and Arrow. . . 20 57 12. His Arms restored 24 39 13. Sharpening his Arrow 24 39 14. Stringing his Bow 24 39 15. Returning Thanks 26 40 16. Arrives at the HUl of Difficulty 32 43 17. Turns away in despair 34 44 18. Meets with Hope 40 47 19. Ascends the Hill with Hope 44 49 20. Resting on Hope, strikes the Hearts 47 50 21. Offering up the Hearts 48 51 22. Uniting the Hearts 48 51 23. Preparing for Triumph 57 55 24. Triumphant 59 56 Vignette. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. CANTO I. 1. Of Love I sing— not of that treach'rous Boy To whom the impure Venus erst gave birth, Whose venom'd shafts empoison mortal joy, Confounding honour, virtue, rank, and worth • Whose midnight orgies stamp on lawless mirth The forged image of celestial pleasure, Drawing from heav'n the soul of man to earth, With foul alloy debasing purest treasure — That Boy, and that Boy's deeds shall not pollute my measure ! 4 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 6. And shall we not the great effect declare ? And shall we not th' Eternal's goodness sing? Arise, my soul ! the grateful song prepare, The heart's triumphant homage gladly bring. From empyrean heav'n on seraph's wing Let angels waft to nature's verge the sound; O'er night's dark empire and day's gladsome spring Let the full choir proclaim to worlds around " Creation's first great work the Birth of Love has crown'd ! " 7. Thrice hail the happy moment, when on high The sov'reign voice pronounc'd the blest decree : Shouts of angelic triumph rent the sky, And loud proclaim'd th' approaching mystery ; Seraphic hosts transported bent the knee, And silent waited the eventful hour, When from th' eternal Fiat they should see Thro' boundless space a new creation tow'r. And unknown worlds submit to Love's directing pow'r BIlRTHo THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 5 8. Wond'ring they saw a distant vapour rise Tliro' the clear regions of immortal day ; They view'd it mounting to the midway skies, And thick condensing hold it's destin'd way: Till, felt the influence of the plastic ray, Straight was it's size enlarged, more bright it's hue ; All nature smil'd, the face of heav'n was gay, When off to air dissolv'd the vapour flew, \nd the young Cherub Love stood first confess'd to view. 9. Ah ! who can tell the charms of Infant Love ! His mild transporting beauties who can speak ! The lily's white, the softness of the dove. The rose's blush compar'd, are poor and weak. Immortal traits to sing the bard should seek Immortal aid; Love's hand alone can trace Love's charms : the front serene, the dimpled cheek. The soul-expressive eye, the jocund face, iLnd ev'ry limb impress'd with elegance and grace. 5 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 10. Awhile, as if entranc'd, he gaz'd around : He mov'd, and heav'n with unknown radiance gleam'd; He spoke, and list'ning angels hail'd the sound ; He smil'd, and universal nature beam'd. By Infant Love subdu'd creation seem'd : And Time transported all his pow'r confess'd ; Of present joys and future bliss he dream'd. Of constant hearts with lasting union bless'd ; Then fondly clasp'd the Cherub to his glowing breast. 11. As when, from parent fountain first discharg'd, The silver Thames pursues his new-born course. His narrow pebbly bed with rushes marg'd Scarce feels the influence of his humid source; He, as he onward rolls, acquires new force. Thro' fertile vales his ample waters glide, And 'twixt his banks maintain a wide divorce ; While Britain's sons to his expanse confide The floating tow'rs which form their bulwark and their pride. .^s. .: s*B-=^-^ G€>l'NV,r AIL ©HE. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 7 12. Thus feeble were at first the powers of Love. His soft round limbs had yet to learn their use : If latent vigour prompted him to move, He felt his infant legs their aid refuse. But falls on aether could not much misuse Ethereal substance: quickly stronger grown, No more his weak attempts his hopes abuse; With native grace his playful tricks are shown, He tries — he steps — he shouts to find he goes alone. 13. Pure silv'ry curls his polish'd forehead deck, Skirt his encrimson'd cheeks with modest grace. And hang enamour'd o'er his ivory neck : The smile of ecstacy illumes his face ; His looks, his steps, proclaim his heav'nly race ; While the bright lustre of his liquid eye Insidious tempts the fond regard to trace The thousand charms which there in ambush lie — To catch one blissful glance, then pine, perhaps, and die. 8 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 14. But his free spirit no such perils fear'd ; Gaily he tript, around diflfusing joy : Where'er he turn'd, the face of heav'n was cheer'd. And sportive Cherubs flock'd to join the Boy. He taught the day in fresh delights t' employ : Now, to outstrip fleet Time he'd show his pow'rs ; And then, with playful wantonness, decoy Thro' many an artful maze the rosy Hours, To weave with him the dance beneath celestial bow'rs. 15. Such were the pastimes of his earlier days. Such pastimes well his earlier days became : For still the soul the body's growth obeys. Still to innocuous mirth youth lays a claim. In vain would age youth's gen'rous ardour tame ! Spring's genial warmth the sap may cause to flow. And summer's sun the well-form'd mass may frame; Autumn alone the ripen'd fruit can shew. The course of nature still is regular and slow. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 9 16. When heedless infancy to youth gave way, His mind expanded as his body grew. To sportive gambol and discursive play Xo more with eager appetite he flew : They wore no longer novelty's fresh hue ; The airy phantoms of the hour were flown. To taste the ev'ning's calm or morning's dew, Far from his festive bands he'd stray alone. And sigh he knew not why for blisses yet unknown. 17. Oft, when his lab'ring bosom panted high, The tear of transport would his eye suff'use ; Half-fashioned forms would o'er his fancy fly, And joys uncertain his fond soul abuse. Nor did he soon the strong impression lose. Half pleas'd, half wond'ring, would the anxious boy On the gay scenes around him pensive muse : But ah! no more they fiU'd his breast with joy; For nought he saw which might his rising pow'rs employ. 10 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 18. And oft reflecting on th' eventful change. And still unconscious whence it might arise, His active mind o'er nature's works would range With tasteless apathy and mute surprise. In vain to fix his wand'ring soul he tries; In vain he listens to the tuneful choir. Or marks th' harmonious system of the skies: To more congenial bliss his thoughts aspire, Where consentaneous souls unite with fond desire. 19. Ah ! how sublime the Pow'r that rules the will In strong obedience to His high behest. Who makes wild passion his behest fulfil, And stamps His precepts on the conscious breast. Who leads the eagle to his craggy nest, And guides the sea-fowl thro' it's trackless flight Secure in tempests and 'midst horrors blest; By whom instructed prowls the bird of night. And taught by whom the lark salutes returning light ! THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 11 20. Nor less did Love His genial guidance know. His op'ning soul receiv'd th' inspiring ray, Felt the new animating transport flow, Instinctively which prompted his essay O'er all created things t' assert his sway. And o'er wide space his influence bland impart. Proceed we to attend him on his way, When, led by pow'r divine, his matchless art FulfiU'd his great design, and triumph'd o'er the heart. 21. The great Creator, who the impulse plants, The means of it's direction ne'er denies: Our pow'rs he well proportions to our wants, And to fulfil his purpose strength supplies. Then let us bow to Him, all good, all wise, Who taught young Love to guide his wishes weak. And gave the Arms by which he gain'd his prize : Nor deem the song too bold, which thus dares seek In rude and humble verse such myst'ries high to speak. 12 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 22. As thro' the azure fields of heav'n's domain He bent his course, deep musing as he stray 'd, His teeming bosom fill'd with anxious pain How the strong impulse might be best obey'd, Two unknown forms before him were display 'd, Smooth gliding thro' the bright expanse of sky, In all the rainbow's gorgeous tints array'd : Suspended for a while, and pois'd on high. By slow degrees they sink, till at his feet they lie. 23. The one a strange fantastic shape appear'd, Which from its centre inward made a bend. The while, as if too close a touch it fear'd, It backward strove to turn at either end, Unheedful of what thence was seen append In guise of cord, which playing loosely wav'd In the cool gales that thro' heav'n's courts ascend : On either side, and all around, engrav'd Were mvstic svmbols seen of free-born hearts enslav'd. FINDS MUS BOW A:^a5 AKKO"^, THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE, 13 24. Th' attendant form, which by the other lay, Seem'd still more strange in all it's properties. It's taper length, straight as a solar ray. Was shap'd at either end in diflP 'rent wise : At one, with plumes array'd of lustrous dies, And tints as various as the morning dew Ere into vapour drawn it mounting flies; While th' other, tipp'd with ore of burnish'd hue. From barbed base to point acutely less'ning drew. 25. Love saw them fall, and stood in mute amaze, Uncertain what they were, or whence arose Such prodigy: nor idly did he gaze; For now his heart the secret 'gan disclose. And trace the cause of all his former throes : He hop'd that fate would now propitious grow, Nor more the object of his birth oppose. Swiftly he caught them up, resolv'd to shew How Love could well employ his Arrow and his Bow. 14 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 26. He twang'd the cord, the pliant bow he bent, And pois'd the arrow in his ready hand; As if employ'd on some sublime intent His new-found arms with earnestness he scann'd. Full many an enterprise he fondly plann'd : Now, as to conquest he would proudly go; Now, stopping short, in mute suspense would stand; Unconscious yet of object or of foe, Still would his varying steps his mind's disquiet shew. 27. As the tall ship, which fram'd with wondrous art O'er ocean's deep abyss sublime can glide. Ne'er may in safety from it's port depart, Or o'er the foaming waves majestic ride. Until the pilot's skill it's motions guide : So, tho' Love's breast with fond impatience swell'd, He felt that much remain'd to be supplied ; Fears undefin'd his rising hopes repell'd, And visionary doubts his fancied triumphs quell'd. TRTING HIS ARHOl^^ ^»^. BREAMS THERE IIS A ^'V^OIRLD. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 15 28. Hence learn, ye Fair ! when o'er your feeling hearts The first fond impulse of affection flies, That purest pleasures are not free from smarts. Ah ! grow in time from Love's example wise : Learn that with passion's smiles are mingled sighs. That sweetest roses bear the sharpest thorn. Watch then the soft impressions as they rise; To wisdom's call attend in life's gay morn, So shall Love's purest joys your cloudless day adorn. 29. Tir'd by the conflict which oppress'd his mind, Love sought repose. His languid limbs outspread On soft ethereal couch, he lay reclin'd : One hand a little rais'd his drooping head ; While from the other hung his arras so dread, With feeble and half-conscious grasp retain'd : But, as approaching sleep his influence shed. And o'er his frame relax'd dominion gain'd. They fell, and at his feet confusedly remain'd. 16 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 30. Sweet are the slumbers of reposing Love. While softest gales amid his tresses play, Sport with his curls, and o'er his forehead rove, Light fanning Zephyrs grateful homage pay, Diffusing perfumes round him as he lay : And far-revolving spheres, in union sweet. With endless harmony, now grave, now gay. In wondrous heav'nly diapason meet. To lull their master's soul and his repose to greet. 31. While thus in sleep profound were clos'd his eyes, With visions undisturb'd his soul was bless'd; For from ambrosial food no fumes arise To cloud his senses, agitate his breast. Or fancy's unincumber'd course arrest. In airy dreams his spirit ranging free Thro' nature's limits made it's ample quest ; O'er all created things it now would flee, Then with prophetic pow'r unveil futurity. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 17 32. He saw thro' lucid realms of boundless space Unnumber'd suns their certain course pursue, By laws invariable their circuits trace, For ever devious, yet for ever true; While each by strong attraction's impulse drew A countless host of planets, lending light To all in order and proportion due : Myriads of worlds, call'd by creative might From darkness undefin'd and wide-extended night. 33. As o'er the scene sublime his fancy ran, Vainly he sought — for who can comprehend ? — Of Nature's God the great mysterious plan : What pow'r might all these floating orbs suspend; What guiding force might on their paths attend To check and govern gravitation's laws. Thro' the vast system as his thoughts ascend, They trace in all His works th' Eternal Cause, Whose word directs the whole, and to one centre draws. c 18 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 34. While thus he pond'red in devotion lost, A form angelic, rob'd in purest light. To his rapt soul appear'd. Sublime he cross'd With outspread wing the empyrean height. And seem'd tow'rds him to urge his rapid flight. Love hail'd him as he flew, nor hail'd in vain : Yet, as descended slow the vision bright. The dazzling radiance scarce could he sustain ; He felt th' extreme of bliss was near allied to pain. 35. Approaching now, with well-pois'd wing outspread The Seraph smiling bent his downward way, And hover'd round the spot where Love was laid. As when the lark, inspir'd by morning's ray. Mounts on fresh wing to meet the new-born day. Suspended in mid-air, with liquid note. She pours to Nature's God the grateful lay. With echoing hymns of praise she strains her throat, While rising gales to heav'n the pleasing tribute float. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 19 36. With flight arrested so the Seraph hung : Nor less delightful to Love's list'ning ear Were the first accents of his tuneful tongue. While thus his hallow'd words his spirits cheer. '* Attend, fond boy ! andheav'n's high purpose hear; " Which to disclose, thro' trackless bounds of space " Obedient thus my willing course I steer. " Attend, while now thy fate's decree I trace; • Then rush to destin'd toils, which triumphs sure shall grace, 37. " Born to command and guide the Human Heart, '* Set forth ; the glorious enterprize achieve, " To mortal woes a kindly balm impart, *' And a new zest to man's existence give. " List, and observant the behest receive. " Where yon celestial orbs their courses run, '* Seven planets mark, their mingled dance which weave *' In due progression round their central sun : Mark well the fifth of these, there must thy task be done. C 2 20 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 38. " Wake, slumbering Boy ! thy new-found arms prepare ; " The world invites thee as it's destin'd king : " Fame weaves her wreaths for those who boldly dare, " And deathless verse their enterprize shall sing." The Seraph ceas'd. — His outspread pinions fling Fresh odours, and appear more dazzling bright, When, as the air dividing, with a spring To those blest regions he address'd his flight. Where dwells the Godhead pure, father of life and light. 39. Up started Love. — His deep suffused cheek Confess'd the influence of hi? mounting blood. Which rushing thro' his veins appear'd to seek A course more rapid for it's hasten'd flood. Sublime in native majesty he stood, And on the weapons which before him lay Gaz'd with delight: no more in pensive mood, But, with a spirit buoyant now and gay, Eager thro* trackless space to wing his destin'd way. GOING IK SEARCH OF THE WOMLID. THE lilRTH A^U TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 21 40. As when the youthful courser first 'gins feel The inborn virtue of his gen'rous sire, Nor biting whip he needs nor goading steel; Ambitious energies his bosom fire, No perils daunt him, no exertions tire : The distant goal with proud disdain he eyes ; Ere yet the signal's heard, his hopes aspire To win from all competitors the prize : Nought can his ardour check ; o'er hill, o'er dale he flies. 41. So felt young Love, so beat his panting heart, Assur'd of conquest, and on fame intent; With graceful confidence he grasp'd his dart, And archly smiling his strong bow he bent. New-cherish'd hope an unknown vigour lent. His out-spread pinions of celestial dye, With tints of varied loveliness besprent Awhile he shook ; then mounting swift on high. Exulting rode on air, and shot across the sky. 22 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 42. The strong impressions of his dream remain. The same ambitious hopes his bosom fill ; His course he urges o'er th' ethereal plain, And bends his flight obedient to his will. On his appointed planet fixing still His watchful eje, thro' countless worlds he steer'd, Transported thus to prove his new-learnt skill. His little bark no shoals nor tempests fear'd, For yet no lightnings flash'd, no thunders loud were heard. 43. As onward thus thro' heav'n's wide fields he flew, Cutting the yielding air with pinions fleet. The guardian spirits of each planet knew Th' immortal boy, and circling round him meet. Still as he pass'd, with gratulation sweet They hail'd the stranger, and with heav'nly song The Lord of Harmony celestial greet. The ample chorus, rich, sublime, and strong. Floats on the gale, and thro' wide space is borne along. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 23 44. Cheer'd by tli' attendant choir he still advanc'd : And now his destin'd planet seem'd more near. As o'er it's varying face his eye he glanc'd, A rich succession of delights appear. Scarce can his sense creation's beauties bear : For then the world was young ; the vig'rous earth. Rejoic'd spring's universal garb to wear, To ev'ry flower and every fruit gave birth, And all was joy and peace, security and mirth. 45. Man then existed not — Ungrateful Man ! With pow'rs to spread o'er all creation joy, To crown the great creator's sacred plan. Why will thine hand the gen'ral bliss alloy. Why wilt thou nature's harmony destroy ? Th' appointed master of all things below. To cherish, not to spoil, thy force employ ! Ah ! let thine heart with soft compassion glow. Nor reign in sullen state humanity's stern foe ! 24 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 46. Arriv'd within Earth's atmospheric bound No more his pinions wav'd. His course direct Now first Attraction's sov'reign influence found, Tiiat law which all created things respect. Attraction's dictates ne'er might Love neglect. For on Attraction's pow'r depends his own : By that alone can he the course inflect Of wand'ring hearts, by that his sway is shewn, His altars burn, and far translucent shines his throne. 47. On earth's revolving ball intent he gaz'd. And hail'd with ecstacy the changeful scene ; Wide-rolling seas his admiration rais'd, VV^hile lay extended continents between, Array'd in tints of various brown and green, Four widely sever'd — Europe's temp'rate clime, Of arts and sciences the destin'd queen ; Afric's wild coast, and Asia's stretch sublime, And vast Columbia's length, conceal'd till future time. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 25 48. As he approach'd, his prospects gay improve. In rich disorder lay unnumber'd Isles, O'er which his raptur'd eyes discursive rove. The new delight repays his past-gone toils, And for the moment present hope beguiles. Whatever of beauty could his fancy draw, Adorn'd with blooming loveliness and smiles And nature's prodigality, he saw : His soul their charms confess'd, and bow'd with con- scious awe. 49. But soon, amid the widely scatter'd throng, A far sequester'd Island met his sight, Against the adverse coast embattled strong. And fenc'd with ramparts of portentous height. Displaying to the sun their dazzling white, Th' instinctive impulse which his course did guide Now fiU'd his bosom with a new delight. Taught him 'twas there his pow'rs must be applied, And there his banner wave in guiltless conquest's pride. 26 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 50. No more he balanc'd. To attraction's sway Himself he boldly trusts. Not swifter flies From heav'n to earth the bright meridian ray, Or shoots the ev'ning meteor thro' the skies When vapours gross from stagnant marshes rise. At his approach the lovely scene expands ; Before him all fair Albion's beauty lies : On a high cliff with light descent he lands, And first on Britain's shores the world's great master stands. ALIGHTING ©N THE WORLD. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. CANTO II 1. High on a cliff, whose threat'ning brow o'erhung Stern in majestic solitude the deep, Young Love exulting stood. The babbling tongue Of slow-receding waves seem'd hush'd in sleep. As murm'ring lowly they soft cadence keep With the mild gale that o'er their surface play'd. The mingled concert stole along the steep, And, o'er reposing nature as it stray'd, Sooth'd the last ling'ring rays while flitting into shade. 28 THK BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 2. The distant hills with brightness still were crown'd, While thin blue mists across the vallies flew, Skirting with humid veil the teeming ground, To meet the tribute of descending dew. One general calm repose creation knew. Meantime, slow rising from her wat'ry bed, The silver'd moon, expanding to his view. Her sober light on the chaste landscape shed, And o'er th' enchanting scene her placid radiance spread. 3. And, scatter'd thickly o'er the wide expanse, Their various course pursuing, orbs of light Harmonious weave their unconfused dance, Dart thro' the gloom their coruscations bright, Heaven's face enrich, and decorate the night. Their great creator's mandate they obey. Declare his wisdom, and proclaim his might. While, widely ranging thro' their trackless way. In solemn state they move and orderly array. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 29 4. Rapt in sublime delight Love wond'ring gaz'd, In all his works confessing nature's lord. As to his throne his grateful thoughts he rais'd, The mighty source of being he ador'd, Who from wild chaos, by his pow'rful word, The mass inert with active life endow'd. To heav'n his sympathetic spirit soar'd, Felt the full influence whence such blessings flow'd. And, as its sway he own'd, in mute submission bow'd. 5. Now, gliding from her high exalted course, Her ray oblique the moon descending cast ; Th' attendant planets, with diminished force, Less brightly shone as thro' heav'n's field they pass'd : And now, soft tinging the horizon vast, Th' awak'ning dawn with modest lustre gleam'd ; Now, o'er the eastern hills encroaching fast. The joCund day with new-born radiance beam'd, Gilded the laughing plains, and o'er the vallies stream'd. 30 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 6. And soon, his golden tresses waving high, The mounting sun his dazzling orb unveil'd : From his resplendent chamber thro' the sky Conscious of proud pre-eminence he sail'd. Enraptur'd Love his genial influence hail'd ; And, as from earth's wide surface odours sweet Ascending fast his ravish'd sense regal'd, With ardour yet unfelt his bosom beat Of his advent'rous course the purpose to complete. 7. Nor longer stays he — With elastic spring See him with outspread plumes his progress trace. Now, borne aloft, he soars on rapid wing, And views expanded lovely nature's face : Now, curious to inspect each softer grace. He swims on liquid aether, and surve^^s The many-tinted gems which earth enchase While the gay sun-beam on the dew-drop plays. Hills, dales, woods, streams unite to sing their Maker's praise. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 31 8. Then, as again he hehi his airy way, A far-extending forest he survey'd, Where interlacing boughs shut out the day. And mantling form'd a close impervious shade ; Save where, amid the brakes, some op'ning glade. With path circuitous and wildly bending, A brighter green and livelier tints display'd ; Now level, rising now, and now descending, From the contrasted gloom now borrowing charms, now lending. 9. As with unerring constancy endued The mystic magnet vibrates tow'rds it's pole. So, while entranc'd th* alluring scene he view'd, He felt new inspiration fire his soul. When as it's influence o'er his senses stole Prompting the forest's deep recess to try, He bow'd obedient to the strong control ; Then, swiftly gliding from his station high, Rush'd on, resolv'd to trace what myst'ry there might lie. 32 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 10. O'er the enamell'd herbage and rich sod His light foot bounded : the gay flow'ret's head Beneath his footsteps scarcely seem'd to nod ; Half-press'd, it rose from his aerial tread, And round his course its grateful odour shed. Thro' mingling sweets he sought his devious way ; Aloft, thick waving branches overspread And canopied his path; now shrouding day, Now op'ning to admit the sun's enliv'ning ray. 11. As onward tript the inexperienc'd boy, Presumptuous fancies fiU'd his tow'ring thought, That here at length his arms he might employ. His new-found arms, from heav'nly regions brought. Though still occasion fit in vain he sought, Yet, confident of skilly his bow he bent, Stretch'd tight the string, and the sharp arrow caught; Aim'd at a branch with whizzing speed it went, But flitting on one side defeated his intent. xsn:sTA:i\E5 his mark YEXATION BREAKS HIS BOW, THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 33 12. Love disappointed blush'd with conscious shame ; But, quickly snatching up the erring dart, He tried again to take a surer aim. Redeem his fault, and vindicate his art : Again he suffers disappointment's smart. For still more wide its flight the arrow takes. Vexation rankles in his swelling heart. Pride mix'd with anger in his bosom wakes. And lost to reason's sway his luckless arms he breaks. 13. On the wide scatter'd fragments with disdain The wayward Boy his eye indignant glanc'd. While o'er his mind imaginations vain. From headstrong folly sprung, tumultuous danc'd , Passion's unhallow'd touch his soul entranc'd, Spreading her murky vapour. Through the glade Stubborn and unreflecting he advanc'd ; And, as with quick and troubled step he stray d. An oft reverted look his deep distress betray d. D 34 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 14. Yet persever'd he still : and now the wood Disclos'd a verdant mead, diverging wide, Through which, soft rolling its untroubled flood, Was seen a pure pellucid streamlet glide. O'er the smooth lawn, with hues enchanting dy'd. Loose scatter'd trees display'd their various grace, Waving their high boughs with becoming pride ; While, skirting all the vale, from turfy base Slow rising hills their bold and craggy outline trace. 15. The mild majestic scene his senses charm'd ; And, as he view'd, his inly-labouring breast, With placid joy and mute devotion warm'd, Regain'd some portion of its wonted rest. But conscious shame forbad him to be blest : Still as his eye the lovely landscape cross'd, Recurring thought his mad offence confess'd ; The gladd'ning scene its fond attraction lost, His agitated soul in floods of doubt was tost. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 3h 16. But beauty, spite of inward wo, will please, And calm the troubled spirit. Mix'd with pain Such gentle bliss Love felt, such soothing ease, That his aspiring fancy once again Pictur'd he might his cherish'd hope attain : When sudden cross his path disporting flew. Or seem'd to fly, along the verdant plain, An undefined form of sanguine hue. Which sometimes seem'd to court, sometimes to shun his view. 17. It's tap'ring point now lightly skimmed the ground, Half-hid beneath the herbage ; while above Its broad unequal surface, smooth and round, With shadowy wings in wanton sport would rove Thro' all the varied windings of the grove. Not far remote a kindred form was straying. Of equal power from place to place to move. Yet for the other's near approach ne'er staying. But still in diff^'rent lines and sep'rate orbits playing. d2 36 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 18. As when the sportsman gay at early dawn Would first his uninstructed pointer try, Heedless he sweeps the dew-drop from the lawn, And wakes the morn with loud unmeaning cry ; But when, the covey's haunt approaching nigh, The pow'rful scent his nerve congenial feels, He stops — he stands with foot extended high, Til' instinctive impulse o'er his senses steals, And all the inborn worth of his descent reveals. 19. Such was th* effect, when first with wond'ring eyes And palpitating breast the Hearts Love view'd. By instinct led he claimed them as his prize : Where'er they flitting mov'd he quick pursued ; But still their skittish bounds his grasp elude. 'Twas now, when turning round to seize his bow, He saw it scatter'd in confusion rude. That first he felt contrition's bitter throe, ProvM how severe his loss, how infinite his woe. MEETS A HEABT. WEEPS FOR THE LOSS OF HIS BOW & ARROW, THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 37 20. Dejected and forlorn to earth he bow'd, Confess'd his error and his fault bewail'd. As his full heart sad recollections crowd, With either hand his blushing cheeks he veil'd ; Then with repentant tears high heaven assail'd, Invoking meekly the indulgent pow'r, Who ne'er to aid the truly contrite fail'd, Whose hand protects us in affliction's hour, When o'er our suff'ring souls dark threat'ning tempests lour. 21. Nor was his pray'r for mercy breath'd in vain. While still in agonizing doubt he stood, While goaded still by harsh reflection's pain And sharp remembrance of rejected good He wept his foolish haste, a brilliant flood Of heav'n-descending splendor clieer'd his sight : With holy dread appear'd to shake the wood ; A distant thunder roU'd ; and lightnings bright Play'd thro' th' unclouded sky and shot their harmless light. 38 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 22. Love stood in transport fix'd and silent awe : He hop'd for pardon, and he look'd for aid, When, thro' the trackless fields of air, he saw Two Dove-like forms, in snow-white plumes array 'd, Their fanning pinions to the winds display'd, Tow'rds him their course direct. Approaching nigh Above his head a circling flight they made : Now tending downwards wantonly they fly, And now with rapid force they court their native sky. 23. But what was Love's delight, his joy how vast. When, as each winged messenger descended. When as with chasten'd course he near him pass'd. Or quiv'ring hung as if his flight were ended, To see from each in airy gripe suspended A Dart and Bow ? His eyes new joy express'd, And spoke the transports which his heart distended; Ecstatic dreams his eager fancy bless'd Of triumphs doom'd to grace his high predestin'd quest. HIS ARMS BESTORJEE). IHARPEKING HIS ARROWS. .STIRIlViJlirTG ![i[I[S BOW. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 39 24. The Doves, now gently sinking to the ground, In humble guise to Love their homage pay ; And, as with flutt'ring wing they hover round. Before his feet his arras restor'd they lay. With smiles, than op'ning spring more sweet and gay, He thank'd the lovely bearers : then with pride His weapons caught. Impatient to assay Their potent force, his arrow's point he tried. And to his yielding bow the well-stretch'd cord applied. 25. Thus, when by driving storms or foul neglect On some concealed rock or unknown sand The richly laden ship is nearly wreck'd. Aghast with fear the mariners all stand, 'Till, when directed by the master's hand. Some friendly harbour she at length attain ; Then, when repair'd her wrongs, her timbers scann'd, Boldly she ventures on her course again. Spreads her extended sails, and proudly cuts the main. 40 THE BIRTH AND TRIL'MPH 0¥ LOVE. 26. To lieav'n his warm thanksgiving duly paid, For action Love prepar'd. Ascending high With rapid pinion, thro' each winding glade. And o'er the spreading plain he turn'd his eye, Searching if there the wand'ring Hearts might lie. His doubtful glances long in vain he cast, Long heav'd his bosom with an anxious sigh ; At length, far distant and receding fast. Their flitting forms he spied, as o'er the mead they pass'd. 27. Tow'rds them with eager haste his flight he bends. And fondly hopes to seize his new-found prey ; But when, as near approaching them he tends. Mocking his toils, the Hearts in wanton play With still superior swiftness glide away, And thus his purpose oft renew'd defeat. But nought his resolute pursuit can stay ; Boldly he still expands his pinions fleet, T' o'erpass their airy course, and stop their coy retreat. --i^^s^a^;-^ KETTRNir^G THANKS, THK BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 41 28'. Long doubtful was the strife — for many a mile, O'er hill, o'er dale, the Boy maintains the chase ; Yet still the Hearts his expectation foil. And, as he urges the uncertain race. With doubled speed his efforts they disgrace. But now behold the cheerful landscape change : The long-drawn vale to rugged rocks gave place, Whicli scatter'd wildly with confused range, From antic base arose with summits bare and strange. 29. High tow'ring far beyond his wild compeers. With browner horror cloth'd, more rudely bold, His insulated bulk a mountain rears. Proud o'er subjected hills his sway to hold, In sullen state and domination cold. This rock, the Hill of Difficulty hight, The all-refreshing sun-beam ne'er consol'd ; In icy chains and snows eternal dight. It frown'd with savage front and dread stupendous height. 42 TKE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 3Q. To make it*s state sequester'd more secure, Around it's base far spread morasses deep Foul-mantling stagnate. From their source impure Thick noisome exhalatious mount the steep, And tow'rds it's craggy summit circling creep, Thro' which each precipice more rueful shew'd ; While, from the long-collected vapour, weep Unceasing show'rs, wasting the drear abode Where lurk the adder vile and solitary toad. 31. It was a place where joy could never beam. Where never calm contentedness could dwell ; For all the woes that fancy e'er could dream, And all the horrors of imagin'd hell, Were here in colours strong depictur'd well. The dire contagion tainted wide the air. Binding the senses in mephitic spell ; Shrouded in which, his engines to prepare To entrap his luckless prey, sat brooding grim Despair. AMRIHy^ES AT THE HII.IL OF DirFIClT]LTT. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 31 32. When as attentively the Hearts he sought, At distance first young Love the rock survey'd, Its horrid grandeur his attention caught. His flight awhile unconsciously he stay'd, While o'er the scene his eye astonish'd stray'd : But when the deep morass and vapoury gloom Emitting fetid steams his sense dismay'd, Appall'd and faint he dropp'd his ruffled plume. Unable to proceed, or his fond chase resume. 33. Not so the vigorous Hearts : their rapid flight Nor wide morass, nor hill with vapours crown'd, Nor the foul stench which thence arose, could fright. Uncheck'd by all the prodigies around, Upward they nimbly rise with wanton bound, Nor stop they till the summit they achieve. When his predestin'd prey escap'd Love found, His loss he 'gan in silent anguish grieve, While gushing floods of tears his throbbing breast relieve. =44 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 34. Ah luckless Boy ! feebly can yet thy skill Thro' all it's range thine enterprize pursue ! How little can'st thou the capricious will Of coy retiring beauty yet subdue ! Bold, when no obstacles impede thy view, Abash'd, when round thee difficulties start, Th' hast yet from suff'rings, from experience true. And disappointment harsh, to learn the art Which crowns our toils with bliss, and melts the stub- born heart. 35. The first effusion of his sorrows past, Love turn'd again to view the steep ascent. On the high cliff full many a look he cast. And tow'rds his prey full many a sigh he sent. Sighs, which with anguish sharp his bosom rent : More fully 'gan he then the rock explore, And far and near his careful step he bent ; The anxious search increas'd his pain yet more, For all was wild, abrupt, precipitous and hoar. TFMNS A"^yAY IN DESFAJIR. THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 45 36. Mounting, again to pierce the gloom he tries. To gain the summit and his object seize. But wayward fate again success denies : The exhalations cold his pinions freeze. And damp enshrouding vapours check the breeze, As from the noxious pool they mounting roll. Desponding Love no consolation sees ; No expectations cheer his labouring soul, No fondly promis'd joys Despair's approach control. 37. The foul contagion now pervades his heart ; His moody breast dark felon thoughts obscure : With desp'rate hand he catches up his dart, To end the pangs he can no more endure. And now uplifted with intent impure He held it pois'd, when, thro' the sky profound. With rapid wing and destination sure, A bright seraphic vision sought the ground, And heav'nly sounds were heard, and splendours burst around. 46 THE BIRTH AND TRIUMPH OF LOVE. 38. Her pinions quiver'd as to earth she flew ; And, as her outspread garments wav'd in air, O'er nature's surface perfumes rich she threw. Than all Arabia's vaunted stores more rare. Disporting in the wind her golden hair Her front with grace ineffable array'd ; And in her hand she bore with seemly care An Anchor broad, of heav'nly substance made. Whose cord diffusive hung, and with the Zephyr play'd. 39. 'Twas Hope, kind charmer of the troubled mind ; Whose fost'ring hand the soul oppress'd befriends. From whom alone the wretch can succour find. When with his prospects dark she brightness blends. Tow'rds Love her course the blooming Seraph bends; With genial smiles she sooths his cares to rest ; And, while in wonder lost he mute attends, New ardour fills his deeply conscious breast. Hope joyous saw the effect, and thus the Boy ad- dress'd — !' . ■ > wn . w«r^ *!C^5C«r' ■C. BERKELEY LIBRARIES CD3Sbl7fl3M n irtu^^w*.^(»w*w4^'r*£s«iUi.*'.*i?L.*;*cy-4i