i i^ \ms/A -< %a3AINfl-3W^^' %J13AINrt-3> ^•OF-CAIIFO/?^ > ^' ^. M nl ^^HlBRARYQr ^.i/ojnv3jo'»^ ^WF'UNIVER^//, ^MIBRARYar ^cwhaivi^"^ 5 5 CO vlOSA^/j ^llIBRARYOr. ^OfCAlIFOff^ Jn 1 uwuan -ixJJv ^ TH£ SWISS PATRIOTS, WITH ^tjfter )|)oems^. BY W. MACKENZIE, AMtor •Cnt ammm tf aidm€tim,' 4c. LONDON: ttkrtiU hj J. OUtot. Cr«v»cawt. Ftott-Mimti fOa SaSKWOOD, XEKLY, AJIO JOXU, rATIftllOSTMoROW. 1817. PREFACE. Sktbkal of my sqiall eompositioot have been gi- ven to the pablic. Their fate has usually bad an ef- fect oa ae, aomewbat aimilar to tbat of tbe mouatain cataract oa tbe peaaaot who ia labouring in tbe vale. He aay lift hia bead for a ■ooMnt to liaten to ilt raar, b«t it baa oot tbe effect to dirert bim from bis labonr. No MM \m done me ao injury. Could I ba?e praacribed to mankind tbe conduct which they were to obaerre towards me, 1 should have deaired them to act predacly aa they have done. How different, I CTckiMed, will ba my sentiments when I assume tbe character of an aatbor ! But why should my sentiments be cbanged ? I shall be no more dia- 775473 U PREFACE. pleased with a man who differs from me in opinion, than I am with him who differs from me in stature and complexion. What then do I either ask or ex- pect from the arbiters of taste ? I have really nothing to ask from mankind. It has been my wish that my employers should know me only in the character of my profession ; though I give my name to this publication, at the express desire of my publishers, my sentiments in this respect remain unchanged. ,;;itf Mm.. TUB SWISS PATRIOTS. ScBVB — A VaUey im SwitMerUmi, 1 ' ■'" NATOBBf h«f ■Mjwty sublime. Blends with ibe grace of teriitl prime, B'oeatb the rock't ttopCMioM gloo«|^« *^* She brcatbct the nyrtle't rich perfoat ; F«ll oft, with Buy a w«v»f baagb, ^e fleckt ihe «o«MBl#r«Nff]r ^nm\ 2 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. While, near the summiTs pending snows. She plants the flower, the lovely rose ; Adown the swelling pine-topped hills, Like silver lines she pours the rills ; 10 While, round the Alps, whose misty height Frowning forbids the eagle's flight. While round the Alps, (which clouds enrobe) That prop the sky, that gird the globe. She darkly sits, and shrouds her form :^^ ,_ , -^.'^ Amid the thunders of the storra;;,^ ^^1 ^jj^ Yet oft the while, with placid brow, , „ ^^f d»wn' H She bends and smiles upon the vale beluw. The parting Sun, with glowing flush. Red as the rose's beauteous blush, 20 PATRIOTS. A Rests on lb* bke, sank to repose, , ,*i Beans on the nooatsin's icy snows, i/ Darts along Ucaven's wMtofspiBti^ - ...!.•/ Id p«rpl« streasM, bU ] ul The woodman now, let loose from toil/iJ sd i if Whose bronze-like visage wears a smile, 40 Winding along, with lingering strides, • • Where twilight day and night divides, ■ >,c uS « !J T Oft, leaning on his hatchet, views .js(^u€. s:. i- , The mountain summit's purple hues ,- ^^t «Ji«?» haA Or the wood, with dubious light, '^wa ^iwoti ^ilf iVt Half burnished, darkling on the sight. ; '. Far up the mountain's verdant steep- The cowherds' cabins shyly peep, , , yww THB 8WI» PATUQflS. FfMi hiMtdi • iliinj rock, i Where rouDd appear Um dtgi tii itck ; 59 SoMC liatleta sUiid, with drooping headi* Oihera siak to their graasy b«da ; While oft at lioica the peadiag bell, flatliag aiar, dica in the dell. A cowherd dow, hia watch tog o'er, Crouches before hia cabio door ; Ilia laofuid eye o'er nature itraya, lu mute cootentmeat'a facant gaze ; Yet be can feel, though nature's child, Ami m hia nountaioa rude and wild, 6U Whene'er aa now, an tuneful play. Mil ltti« awnke« tb« raatk lay, • 9 m I'ilE SWISS PATRIOTS. Emotions through his bosom flow, i Flushing across his roughen'd brow j ,a beu^i »iu^W And oft as echo, with her wiles, ^f 8Ss>U^i\ *♦"• Steals his lone notes, he stops and smires.''^^ «'' She steals his notes, and then her lone She playful mingles with his own ; * And, flying, far she bears along The dying cadence of the song. -fc^hHi <«»ir --q Albert's glad home, in modest guise, ^v*^ Seeks shelter from inclement skies ^94^ flikd Aft f^ Beneath a rock, around whose head The pine and birch a curtain spread. Whose bosom that no summer feels. With circling zone, the ivy veils ; lUE SWISS PATnoflb* f WboM bam, op a slopiaf Hoe, Whro MaMcr glow<, display* the vine. Hanging laxarioat to the Tiew, f t. Ib gay iieatooBS of purple hut*. W A mouDlaio ttreaa, is frctiul raood, Creopa narmunog tbrongh a taDgl«^ wood ; A «IMr«ppo*ior ten iu way, It aweep* along io feathery spny, Boilisf tad feaniag in iis conrae, Flyiif Atf from ita airy koarce, TiU «taMd ita ire, with tranqail tide. It •aatic* fwud tke oabio*s aide, Aloof the gaidea MMttfily Bo«a« Where vernal hoara their aweets ui»cinse ; 90 8 THE SWISS PATRIOTS, Then throug^h the vale its waters wind, Rejoicing to be uncoafined, r r^af < — ir; ; r! " And gently flowing, rippling lave .» - •• v; . The flowers that on its margin wave. Beneath a seat where graceful twine The myrtle and the jessamine, f a«fMi4si Albert reclines, his children round • ' Pesport with youth's elastic bound, Happy as innocence can be. Amid the sweets of liberty. KM) Go ! visit grandeur's stately bower. Where pleasure rules the festal hour, Where music rolls, with jocund glee, Where all — all is mirth's revelry. IBB SWISS PATRIOnr • AU is Bol joy ; BO— bow chao|red the view ! \V«ie but ibe beart to Mtdre tiue. The niittb tb«l gli»(«M ia the eje ' '-^ - WouJd to tbe breast sink io a sigh : Aod, ah ! the smile — tbe smile 1 fear Would form the cbaooel of a tear ; 1 10 For plaarares, thai to raptorct rise, End in tears, or etd in sighs. "* Here pleasure, with her lamUflf Uatn, N«*er ander smiles infuaes pain, ^- Where'er she moves, where'er a gtisal, ' ^ Tbe smile spriofs warmljr from tbe breast. Oo bis sire's, knee, m rosy boy. His coiiDtry's pride, bis pamts* joy. to TliE SWISS PATRIOTS. Reclining-, cons his simple tale, ««.?; «>{ um <-.( U/-. While silent breathings round prevail ; 120 A simple tale — the deeds of Tell, , , * . < Which children love to hear so well, ^4icit SisioW Around the hearth, when winter lours,,^ I li^-.^'mit. When summer smiles, in fragrant bowers^ :Ji ^y^j^i©?* He reads — the listening group respire 5 .jr,?fi^ ^ni The youthful patriot's hallowed fire; , f,.^ ; He reads — he raises oft his brow, ^I«/ti'»f4 And meeting looks consenting glow. • The mother on the cabin's floor. Led by affection to the door, *«.^^,,^ 13(1 Bends o'er the group with looks of love. As o'er her nestlings bends the dove, ■: TliE SWISS PATRIOTS. li Tbe iofiint pauMs, and th« wbfle, -* T«nM to hi* Mother, woot a snile r hkm takes bin, wamtsd with joy*< excest. And fold* bim io a fond eareat* High oo a bill, the cloiater*s tower, ProdaioM aramd the ereoing hoar, rraliog with heavy, solemn knell, Along the moaotain'a savage swell. 140 Tba passing group tarn round-lheir eyes To where the clanging sounds arise. While oo their cheeks mirth sinks to sleep, like winds upon the tranquil deep ; And gravity, with wistfnl mien, ' -*• And Busing eye, Mrrsys tbe scene — 13 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. As thus they stand — opes full to view, r» iwiiitn .^T Where circling bend the birch and yew. The hallowed spot, the narrow bed, Where death his stilly reign has spread — 150 Where heroes sleep, each in his cell. Who nobly fought, and conquering fell ; Their country called^- as warriors brave, They conquered freedom — found a grave ; The pious hand a garland new, ,: , Blushing with every beauteous hue, dj' Has formed, and round the lowly tomb fft ^^ »iii'ff Bade it exhale its rich perfume. v n*qu abni^ ^x ' Albert the silent musing breaks, «? ti;^S -'^ '' The father and the patriot speaks; ^la^s'^gf^mEts 169 Tu£ swi:>& nmumu. i-^ ** If e*er the sword ambitioa wield, ** And call yon to lb* wmh*'""** *>«'<'' • ** If glorj «*cr thottld poiut lo nauc, ** And waiw yoo with a warrior's iauue — *' Ab, poodcriaf pant ! H«w oA the shore, ** Tbej nerdlcss heap with buoMui gore ; ** How oft the plafai and traiiqail flood ** Thcj moist, aod tiuge with bttman blood ; <« 0*tr des<^tion oft tbej ■»▼€, ** While SMokiaf deaea their trionphs prove. 170 *' Bat for joar homes — at freedom's call, •* March^^ooqaer— or like pairiola fidl. <* With hcarta oadaaated, side bjr side, *« Roll oaiht Cm Um btlUe's tide : 14 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. " If hostile numbej-s sweep the field, " Will you succumb — to.slavery yield ? '• If freedom fall in hostile strife, ■ . ' " Without oxir liberty — ah ! what is life. • • ■ - \ ' •« Hark, whence that sound ! The cliflTs rude head, " The chamois seeks, with nimble tread, 180 " Bounding from rock to rock on high, • ''<'^^ v^i * *' He stops, and turns a startled eye. ." i '•■' " " Along the dale the grazing steed, v-.-^v- ' ' " Arches his neck, wheels round with speed, " Snorting, his head he quickly veers, ;^ t( ! rail '' *' With eyes intent and list'ning ears. " '*^ Hark, what sound ! 'Tis the trumpet's breath » '• That calls to victory or to death I S-: ."f§gft„. . . THE SWbSb P.U'RIOTS. If " Tu uinfliaf soaad uf drum and born, 100 ** AloBf the •tMllia; ■KNintain boriMr : '* *Tis— ah ! aotkett wail — war's dread Kong:, ** Moaniog the dark*uin|^ vale aloof." Aa seanen eye the coining >toini. The Biotbtr beacb her graceful form: ** Who cones ?" ahe breathes in trembliug bight; ** Ah war !** in geotler accenU dm ; And while lb« cause she tries to trace, She glances oo her Albert'i face : Thas on the deaart, side bjr t>ide, llie fearful traveller views his guide. *200 Mate, Albert staada with brnw elate, Aa aoe who dates to look on fiite ; 0% 16 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. Yet on his visage are impressed The thoughts that labour in bis breast. He asks not for the warrior's fame, fie only fears the traitor's name ; lie waves the olive branch of peace, And cries to foes approaching — cease ; If they advance the sword he draws, And liKe a freeman stands in freedom's cause. 210 Warriors approach ! — behold afar The dark'ning speck of vengeful war, III lengthened line, in semblance gray, '] hey pace the raonnlaiirs winding way. Adowi), like phantoms of the night lh*'y dimly seem, now mock the sight; iHE SWISS i»ARri(/i"s. ir While, tovchaf bifb, where the »ua spreads A halo ro«nd the laonotains* heads. Their polished weapons flilfal gleaiii, At diaUat stars oa night's pale beam. 320 But whence the band — or friend or foe. Bring they safety, or bring they woe ? Albert paers-— aloft banners play, Flaonting in evening's fading ray ; ' " *'<'" ' As he whom fate has forced to roam, Retaminf, riews bis well known home, Albert rrjoioet, for on high Helvetia's banaert Meet hit eye ; ** IMvetia's baaMis are vofarted, ** Ai4 wave high o'er a prost'rale world. S3I^ c3 fS THE SWISS PATRIOTS. ♦• ! may they e'er, to good men dear, '* The patriot's hop^-, the tyrant's fear, " On these proud heights triumphant wave. '• Defended by the good and brave. " I go, the martial band to meet ;" , > Albert resolves, all bosoms beat : > Jj f j '' " And I will go!" exclaims his boy. Who scarcely could a lamb annoy, And, casting round an eye of pride, 240 He moves up to his father's side. The mother, of her tears beguiled, .]' i. Delighted smiles upon her child, * ."i But, ah ! the smile upon her face, ^ i..^, ;^ff • Quickly to feai resigns its place. TIIE »WiSh i'AllUUTS. tf It Mean aubidden to iutrnde, A« laughter oo'frief'a solitiHle>- Again war's Twice salatca tier ear, m^i' 8be liatena, wipes a oiotber's tear ; ** Yea** Albert smiling takes lii« baud, «* Yes, thou sbalt guard tby native limd, 'J5 Has taken nature's charms away ; While night, along the earth and skies, Seems with the scene to harmonize ; As hanging clouds in lurid form, Shroud the grim spirit of the storm. No more the martial peals resound, Startling the echoes all around, 270^ 111b SWISS FATKim'S. «1 B«t bMhcd, to stiller cadence cone, la uodcfincd porteoto«t bum, Joioed with the dMhio^ torrent near. Making the awful scene morr^drear. Darknesa loora — throngb the murky maze, Behold a tbonsaod beacons blaze, ; r Throwing around their streamy glare, FreedoB'a proud signal, tbroogb the air, Vesiaf Bight's still and gloomy sway. By vsberiog in a mimic day. 280 M'ben terror reason's power suspends. Fancy her hoea obtrusive lends ; The outline hope Md Isnor give, Faaej fills «p, and bids it live : 2t2 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. 'I'o fancy's eye, by fancy's ear. What sounds are heard, what scenes appear ! The towering fires that flaunt their light Upon the dusky brow of night. Seem like the tapers that illume The darkaess of the cloister's tomb, 290 While the shadows, flitting around, Emit a low and boding sound. Mingling, circling, darkly seem, - v./ Like ghosts in superstition's dream. The mountain tall, whose height sublime. Resists the mouldering hand of time, • t^.i {•.^fy'i Whose granite top, that darkly towers -^mife)^ '• To meet the cloud that darkly lours, ■ * '^- . IVB &W1SS PATRIOTS. 18 Receives the ligbl, and dimly Uiuwv "^ The stream which from its boeotn flows; JOO And the rocks* basaltic height, Frowniog on the giddy sight, Aod the wood whoee cxpauding shade Dimly illamin'd fonm an arcade. Where night retiring seems to be Stated in gloony asajesty. Along the nomtaiD's beaten way, To which the beacons lend their ray, A figure moves with qaick career. The maasfnger of hope or fear ; 310 1 he auuo«s group, with eye intent And whtsperiBg hua, Mark bis descent — 24 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. Eagerly mark hira, 'mid the gloom, v^ Pointing his footsteps to their home ; ;; ^slT Till near the base, where the dim light, ' ' \ Struggling, baffled, fades into night ; , ' He sinks in darkness, and, nnseen, Speeds lonely o'er the dewy green. a:«s«li/ \it^M1 With breath suspended, beating heart, r Eye dilated, and lips apart, -'■-■o'-i ■.' t 3SQ(''. They give their ear to every sound : In silence anxious and profound. Something approaches — a dim shade, , .avoei stu^s'^ Is faintly to the view displayed, ci ti» t-t-nrt^iusaiw .*d T While quick heaved breathings load the air. He comes — the messenger is near; in-V"^. ' ' ' » "^ TiiE SWISS PATRIOTS. «s "JStraagtr. whence coin'tt thoa ?" Albert criet— ** Haste, baste/* lb« ■—■g«r replies ; ** To-iDornm** Sao tball sac ibe foe, ** Poshing o'er fooder iDO«itain*s brow, 310 ** Where the vsrriors tske their stand, ** Tb« footdians of their native land ; ** To hold, as OMO, what their sires ^vf , ** Their liberty— or find a grave ! '* Haste, baste, your country bids you am, ** I, flying far sound the alarm." No stay he brooka, but speeds alsogt Leaviof the half foraed question oo their toofW. Whene'er the doad tbst darkly rides. Poors sodden thoodcrs from its sides; 940' o 26. THE SWISS PATRIOTS. The rousing traveller starts — and then Looks round — nature is calm again ; He eyes the cloud — still seems to hear The thunder's pealing on his ear; Thus stands the mother — o'er the plain. Her eye the stranger seeks in vain ; Yet still the words that fearful fell, Sound on her ear a funeral knell ; 3dO While war's dread fields before her lie. As they springs up to fancy's eye, - She sees the bands in warlike strife. For glory, freedom, bartering life ! She sees the fallen — the soldier's bier Bedewed with love and friendship's tear ; TIIP. SWISS PATRIOTS. »? Her boMMD Ibrobtt «h«lin*d wHh alaiin«. She dupa ber husband lo her arms ; lo IremUiog brvath, with fontiest sway, Fma danger's field wom him to stay : HflO Poiots to the cot, a scene aMSt drar. And bids bim riew bis children near. The soroaaons coarsed through Albert's blood. With danotlcaa brow the patriot stood ; Id fancy grasp*d the freeman's steeU And felt all that the warriors feel ;■ But who unmoved can view the fair A suppliant with affection's air ; A soppliant she bit botoaa moves With feeling* that a fiitheHoves. 37U d2 «8 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. Yet could his coward footsteps fly, And as he flies turn round his eye, 380 And with a coward look behold. The band of heroes, few but bold ; Such thought his soul indignant spurns. The patriot in his bosom burns. Wilv'ml/. A patriot he, the patriot's claim Is surest linked with the warrior's name. Ah ! can a scene in life impart, A purer pleasure to the heart. Than the fair one with fear's wan hue, Or like the rose begemmed with dew, • 390 Around the form she loves entwining. Or oji the breast she lores reclining; 111E SWISS PATRIOTS. t» And while upon the breast »he lies, Brtatbei out her tool \n wbisperiiif sighs. Albert b aored ; bb warlike brow. b softened witb aflection'a glow. And io endeameot'a mellow tone, Wbicb ballowed lore daiau as ils own. Ere h« ^paru, be wonid eaaty. To cbarm her trembling fears away : 400 Bland b bis speccbt like zephyr's wing Fnaaiaf the wnmf flower of spring ; Then rises like the wind from sleep. Swooping along the beat iog deep— ** Shall e'er my coMpoen paas me by, ** Uoheedod or with pitying eye, d3 30 the; SWISS PATRIOTS. " Sliall e'er my sons pronounce my name " With bended eye, and blash of shame ? ' " Were I to shrink from honour's laws, " From freedom, and .my country's cause, 410 " My sire entorab'd would seem to say *' Reproachful" — •Turn thy foot away, ' Ne'er let thy garland o'er me wave, h ^' «■? • ' Thy coward tear would stain my grave ; * Honour'd through life, I here recline, ♦ An honour'd grave shall ne'tjrbe thine.' " I go to meet the coming foe " Who dares to scale the mountain's brow ; " Mountains rear'd by the Almighty band, •' ' « 'i'' " '* Sentinels of our native land ; » *«»«<, >.. 420 TIIE SWISS PATIU(yr& SI *< I fo— my cooDlry sball be free, ** I fiflit for liberty and thee ; ** For the land that gave me birth, ** My wife, my cbiMres, siid my hearth/' TIm MWft of the oak't broad crest la on the lacid atream imprcu'd ; Thas sympathy with warm control I lis glow improaaes oa her soul. Dashes away the gatberiof tear, And caloM ih« trcmbliug throbs of fear. 430 ** Yts, Albert, go^l yield to thee, ** Go— be wbate'er a maa abould be. " Away,"— Sbe qieaks in hurried tone. Starts, as the voict were aot her own. »^, THE SWISS PAT mo iS. i^nd stifles on his breast the sighs, -jk-ven-^ov I.' Nature unchecked would urge tu rise. The cabin sought — the taper falls, In streaming lights upon the walls. And shows the group, their forms displayed, Partly in light but more in shade ; 440 Her purpose like the ember's ray. Now glows by fits, then faints away ; Her noble purpose firm and high. Flushes her cheek, speaks in her eye ; And now her fearful glance is cast On Albert, as it were her last. ^i»»l v ^ ...,*i.) The young ones round their eyes up*raise. And wondering on their parents gaze ; ', TOR SWISS PATRIOTS. 33 Tliio^gh Albert's breast bis thoughts are drifeo. Like doadt aloog ibe f«ce of Hcaren ; 4&0 Yet at Ibe Mooo whMi the dark HoimI, Tbrowt o'er her brow a murky shroud. Sublimely climb* her azure way, 0*erlopa the cloud, and pours her ray, Tbe put riot iu hn bouoai tours. And Tifonr to his eye restores. The sword whirh peace had now lon^ shraihed, A gift the sire to sou beqoeatbeil; The sword suspended on the wall. He views — bis look is marked by all ; AfiO ili« hand reaovut it from its place, His band they anti4w, fearful trace ; 3i THE SWISS PATRIOTS. He half unsheaths it, and its gleam, r'air*/' Ihrown by the taper's paley beam, I'alls on an infant's up-turn'd eyes, ~ -.' Who, trembling-, to his mother flies ; And while her knee he circling holds, Conceals him in her vesture's folds. The sword is sheath'd — cause of alarms, Albert his son clasps in his arms ; 4^ And while aflTectioo's mantling glow Softens the warrior's sterner brow, In soothing tone, the infant cheers. And wiles away his shrinking fears. " Fully equipp'd, I must away — •* The summons will not brook delay;" TUE SWISS PATRIOTS. U He 9Mj» — Her eje with ardour glows, She poiniiog^, iBotioii* — meet the foes ; And thrn brr oauiretched arms would shield, And ktrp him from the Mnguine field. 4S0 V pauxe entact— ^ soiena pmt ; While lo^e their looks coDseDtiof^ draws. Their look* with sweetest force rereal. The sjrn|Kilhie« their hosomt feel; ' ' ** Farewell, mj love,—** and he the while, i Would veil his feelings io a smile, •• Farewell ;'* within her heaving brrast. The straggling sigh is hashad to rest. Adieu," she says ; " one fond embrace,'* I Wittfal she gazes on his face ; 490^' 36 TUIL SWISS PATRIOTS, Her wistful eye is fondly fixed, Murmurs are with her breathings mixed ; Her purpose fails— ah ! sinks her heart, Earnest she cries, ** we never part — " •' Dismiss thy fears, soon, soon 1 come, *' The foe expelled — I seek my home." He pausing-, marks her changing hue. Whispers in fondest tone — " adieu !" Then turns his foot to leave the hall — His shadow moves along the wall, His dog looks up, and with a scowl. Emits a loud and deepening howl ; A dreadful knell ! her feet rebound, She bears disaster in the sound, THE SWISS PATRIOTS. ST Towards the door ber arms are ihiowa. Frantic she cries, ** Ah ! be is goM;** Yes be is fooe, he most not stay. He basles to clinnb the moontaio't way ; Albert sees ooC thy freasied eye» Albert hears not tby piercing sigh ; 500 All pale, and fix'd, with tooching air, She seens the statue of despair. Beside her foot ber rosy boy, llrr fatare hope her present joy, Looks upwsrd with a fearful giaoce. And wakes bis mother from ber triMiw 38 THE SWISS PATRIOTS, Mournful she bends on bim ber eyt. And while she heaves a lengtben'd sigh, Uplifts bim to ber throbbing breast. And seeks a seat, with grief oppressed ; 510 The infant droops — his eye half closes, And as be on her breast reposes. The wonted lullaby she tries, But, ah ! ber tone in niurntur dies; Again she tries, but tries in vain. The failure but renews her pain : She sinks in gloom, the vital thrill. Which moves the heart, is almost still. THS SWISS PATRIOTS. 39 When sorrow with her badrful art Suddrnly setzet on the heart, S99 Nat are, re-actio^, oft awaila, And o'er the foe of joj preYailt. Tbo«fli atUI the wcara the look of fear ller ejre it moitten'd with a tear ; Teart five her naluBg heart relief— Teart are the cordial of grief — She tilent wcept — the mother weepiof Beadt o'er the lovely infiuit tleepiof ; While on hit cheek the tearfal feoi Kfftit like the dew oa flow'ret't ttea ; 590 She lovea with wittful eye lo trace The lather in tha iD(aBt*t face ; 40 THE SWISS PATRIOTJ^; And while hope strikes a bolder tone. Raising her feelings to its own. She sees the germ of fature joy, Concenter'd in her slumb'ring boy ; Nor fears the blight that nips life's bloom. And lays youth in an early tomb : Then sinking in abstraction's dream. Her soul assumes a nobler theme ; 540 Fancy, her leader, and her guide — She seems to climb the mountain's side. And sees the bands — an awful sight ! Eagerly rushing to the fight; They march — they meet — now they engage, A voice of thunder speaks their rage : THE SWISS PATRlom. 4| The fon ate beat — ihej fly ! tbej fly ! It echoed tbtougb the misty tky; Tbe foes are beat — tbe field is won, Albert is safe, sbe clasps bis soo: 550 Wakiaf sbe balf io sorrow snules, Cliofs to tbe rision that befviles. Poors oat to HeaTen tbe earaest prayer, ** ! for the little ones the father spare/* Throvgh well knows totMS wrapt io lifht's By loof endearmeot lovely made, [shaJe, Albert, with firm and warlike breast, Seeks tbe nottotaio's lofty crest, Eai^r to hail and join the band, Tbe chiefs and wairion of the land : oOO k3 42 THE SWISS PATIUOTS, Yet oft a thought love steals from war, Turning, he throws his eye afar And views his cot— -where'er we roam The eye reverted turns to home ; He views his cot — its frugal light, Struggling through darkness, meets his sight ; No more he dreams of martial fields. The warrior to the father yields ; Bless'd visions thiough his bosom play. Reason submits to Fancy's sway. 570 Ah ! rouch-lov'd lot, where all conspire To glad the patriot, btisband, sire ; His children sport with wonted glee. His infant prattles on his kuee ; TH£ SWnS PATEIO rS. 49 llw wife - be tlarts — ab ! chaogM th« mcm t Mem'ry depicts her freosied mieo, Swifl as the speed of wiofed dart, A paog »tiikei te his inaoly heart ; Helvetia's banners meet his pis* Sren by the bracoo's dyinfr blase ; 5fM> Still, still, 'mid feeling's paiafol strife, His soul jearns to his childieo, wife; " Be those,** be prajt: ** kind Heaven thy care ;** Love breathes sod Heaven «itl hear the prayer. He, quickly tammg, hastes aieof, t'banliog the patriot's simple son(. 44 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. The full-orb'd moon, glory of night. Slumbers above the mountain's height ; Beneath a canopy of blue. Without one cloud to mar the view, 590 Whate'er confronting meets her eye. Seems in a silvery flood to lie ; The mountain's top receives her glow. And seems like age's blanched brow ; While the receding dale and plain Darkness still holds as her domain ; A mellow glow with shades between Invests and animates the scene ; A scene which fix'd attention draws, Obscure, sublime — its grandeur awes ; 000 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. 43 Hillf ■NMoUiDt diff. aad darkling rock, Soae bare, some cloath*d with pine and oak* Of varying shade, of varying siae. Waring in dim confusion rise : It seems like chaos e'er the earth. As yet half forro'd, bad spniDf to birtb ; While yet creation's davoing ray Shone on the mass, riaing to form and day. Enthron'd in lastie, qneen of night. Envious, drinks the beacon's light. OCl And shows the warriors group'd around. Waiting the mom, the Irompet's sound : Like those, who their lov'd fields survey* Freedom commands and thry obey ; 4^ THE SWISS PATRIOTS. Who view the battle's pending storm With eagle eye and daring form ; Chiefs, fir'd with freedom and renown. Their country's glory — not their own. And anxious for to-morrow's fate. Apart, are group'd in close debate ; -^ 620 With counsels weigh'd, they form their plan, And pointing oft the mountain scan; Some round the beacon's fading fire In broken slumbers calm respire ; Some with bent head, and pensive mind. Muse on the joys they leave behind ; Others arms for the morn prepare With busy hand and wistful air. THE 8WI8S PATRIQfTB. 47 And pljrioCf to deceWe tb« tiiof, I bey raiM the sosf of rastie riiyMt ; (BO Pe«riog, at timet tbej turn their brow Tu wbere appeared the comiof foe. And oft ihry cast an spward gUnco To nark ibe waniof oi^l'a advaoce. t'poo the camp's remotest booods, Wbere slalk the guards tbeir stilly rooods. Wives, moihrra from the warrior's part« From those whom love binds to the bearl, ' Heroic feeliogs seem to riss O'er female weakness, tsars and sigbs ; Ml They paosiog cry at «acb lot *d nit ** Dcfcod your coyntry, aod her fame ;** 48 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. ** Let every breast with freedom burn, ** As Patriots and as men return. — " But, ah ! the heart, to feeling true. Blends tears and sighs with the adieu. A patriot says, who eyes the scene. In moralizing tone and mien, How many of the warrior train Shall ne'er pronounce adieu again. ' 650 The lips, warm with affection's breath, To-morrow's strife may close in death. The turf on which we lightly tread, May press upon our narrow bed. A warrior cries, with rapid force, Abrupt as mountain torrent's course, THE SWISS PATRIOTS. 49 Danger* are roood as, thall we Ay ? What is bia life who dares not die — We fly — but whither— to disgrace — Slaves we become, and sUtcs oar race. fiOO Yes, let OS fly, and sink a mmm As dear to freemen as to Ium ; But we may (all, then all is o'er. We fall for freedom — can we moi«? What, fall ! think on the good and brave. The freeman's lame upriags from bis gravv. A youth, opprrss'd with love's fond ibioc*. Seeks that reliefs lover knows ; Apart from all he fans the flame, ikealhes out the fair one's mncb lov'd name. U7U 50 THE SWISS PATRtdTS. Iler graceful air, her look, her smile. The food of love- — his heart beguile ; Pleas'd visions on his fancy gleam, He looks around — it is a dream. Young Conrad and Matilda lov'd ; Virtue and taste their love approv'd ; They felt its joys without its pain, He lov'd and was belov'd again ; Rear'd in one vale, their bosoms caught An unison of feeling — thought ; 680 He lov'd — he sigh'd — she saw his flame. Felt love, but gave it friendship's name ; He talked of lov — the beauteous maid. Timid, in innocence array'd. rut SWISS pATUont. ii Rciir'd behiad Love** modest veil Ani kigbed, but would the «ifh conccJ ; H« prcsu'd bis lore — in bis embrace Sbe bid bcr blosbts, bid ber face. And by (be cbaste sod food catess Mutely dedat'd bcr love's eicew. 000 A day mw» fii*d wbeo loie would claim A ballow'd and endearioj^ naae ; But ere that day, war's flaf display 'd, Sumroon'd bim from tbc p«-accful shadr ; T!ie lovers patted — wbo can tell Tbe aoguiab ia their sad farewell ? Tbis toochiof sceae paM*d in a bow'r, 1 win* (I by tbrit bands in bappirt hoai ; 62 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. Not far from home, within a glade, Where oft the joyous lovers stray'd, 70(> The feelings of his troubled breast, His courage, e'en his love repress'd ; Yet his flush'd cheek, and burning brow, To the fair one declar'd his woe ;" *' '"■ ' ' She wail'd — distraction in her air. In accents urg'd by love — despair. Wept o'er her hopes, sunk into gloom, ' And mournful seem'd to eye his tomb ; Then round his neck her hands entwin'd While on his arm her cheek reclin'd ; 710 Her changeful chetik,aiid transfix'd eye, Silent spoke mental agony ; TUF SWISS PATRKITS. &» The ciian^fal cheek srem'd to depiorr The p«ftiDf , when fiieikb aaet ao More ; The eje, u if they e'er thoald |mu1, lBpre»)'d bis inagc on her heart. Hi« comrade* do* v^ hasty stride, Boacd for the camp, diab'd the hill** side : Missi&f jooog Coorad, look'd bcbiad. And gave their hatioo to the wioU ; TiO lie beard the shout, aod knew hu pM>l, When called to aoct ih' ia«adisg i>o»t ; A «aiin embrace, he waved adieu ! Ketired — retaroed— what was ia *icw ? lo meltiaf tad diskaveJi'd diaims She sunk withio a aistet's aims, i 3 M THE SWISS PATRIOTS. He o'er her beut, to speak essay'd, But look'd distraction's self poortray'd ; Loud and more loud the shoutings grew, She rais'd her head — inurmur'd adieu I 7«'30 He turned him round, witl> frenzied air, And fled as from himself, and fioni despair. The youth lies nigh the busy scene. Beneath an oak's moon-chequer'd screen, While love in every feeling lives. And seems to mourn the pain she gives; Soothing she takes each thought from pain, And drooping, gives it back again ; Albert the warlike scene surveys, And while apart he thoughtful strays ; 740 THE SWISS PATRlOtH. ft» Perceives the youlh, and cbtcks bis pacr, Then view* the half-avertrd fiice. And fecU a flush, he koowM not why. Till the youth, turning, fronts bis eye ; My brother ! — is the mutual cry. The wondering youth starts from the ground — Thry mect^-enibrace — forget all round ; Thry meet as brothers on a deck Disacver'd from the sinking wreck ; Who feel the kind fraternal glow 7S0 Now flushing o'er their saddrn'd brow ; Now— mute they see the tempest rave. And roaod Ibem throw the foatD-lopp'd wave. 56 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. In such a spot, at such an hour^ In camp, beneath the moon's pale power. Thoughts, feelings, wilder'd, undefined, Tumultuous dart across the mind ; Albert now pauses — strides along — Returns — then views the warlike throng ; And murnmring says, •* why hither come 760 ** Far from thy mother, mistress, home, " To meet the foe ? — that duty mie — " To soothe thy mother — that is thine. " Shun the foe — while life's current warms ;" The youth exclaims, " this heart, these arms, " Ne'er shall the foe insulting tread " These mountains, vales, by freedom sway'd. THE SWISS FATRIUTS. 57 ** What ! shall i slain my count ry'K famf, ** Y'oar's, Albert, sod mjr father's name V* Albert exclaims, fire in his eje, 770 Yet pity blends with his reply : ** I mourn, I honour thy resolves, " Freedom our homes— oor all iuvolvcs.** A masscoger arrives io baste>- The chicfa yo« call — no noncolt waste ; Albert, tb« summons to obey, Frrparcs — bis brother stops bis way ; Matilda — the youth ceases, sighs. And fixes on the earth bis eyes. Now all ia calm as scpbyr*s breath, 7K) 1 he morn begios tb« work of death ; 5« THE SWISS PATRIOTS. If I — mine is the lot of all — 1 may survive— many will fall ; But if my fate — grant my request — He pauses — may my ashes rest Within the vale, nigh to the shade, Bless'd by my love, dear to the maid ; And will she come at eve's mild hour. Plant round my bed each lovely flower. And while her breast fond musings swell, 790 Think how I lov'd, think how I fell ? Aurora now with glancing eye. Proclaims to night that day is nigh ; Night shrinking seeks the vale and plain. Calling away her shadowy train. TUB SWISS PATRlorrs. M Sleep* who o'er tente oblivion shed. When til the eharms of day were fled ; And tilenee, who her watching kept, Around the coocb where oetore slept. Day drinks opon the nioautaia's head 8UU The dew — tears for hb absence shed; And fives his smile to Many an eye. Which ne*er shall view the cv*ntttf sky ; Albert, now from the mountain's brow. Beholds th* awak'ninf vale below. The happy vale, wher« life began. H'here sported yonth, where lives the man ; D«ai b the fcceoe, however wild. Where stray'd our footsteps while a child ; 60 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. Bland is the gale^ fair is the flower, 810 That fans, and gems our youthful bower : But, ah ! how bless'd the field or grove Where first youth hears the sigh of love ; Where first the breast young transport warms. And gives to weman all her charms ; But if from these we soou may part, We muse — soft feelings touch the heart — Muse on the joys we felt before. While fancy sighs — they come no more. Albert, while fixed in fancy's dream, 820 Pondering many a pleasing theme. O'er which his feelings cast a shade, Soft as the liaze along the glade ; THE SWISS PATRIOTS. ^t LUu to a voice— the voice is aeer, H« tame hit fool, the chiefs appear. lliey meet, no frank and cit il phrase It beard, aa in their happier days; One tboQi^bt — their country** (ate conlrolt Each parpoM, feeling of their soak, in some is seen the patriot fiir. S:|U 1 bat dares to cooqaer or expire ; In MMO the looks and word* unfold Defiance, firm and unconlioU'd ; In other* cbasfiaf baet appear. At rait'd by hope, or t«ak by fear ; In roost, the porpoae of the heart That calU to act the patriot't part* • e'i THE SWISS PATRIOTS. Burns in the breast with steady flame. Beams in the eye, and animates the frame. With cloudy eye and fault'ring tongue, 840 A chief speaks to th' encircling throng. The thought that darkens in his mind. To observation undefin'd. Seems to declare the coward's fear. And now betrays the traitor's sneer ; He magnifies th' invading host, And talks of battles won and lost; In glowing tints, pourtrays war's course. Remorseless o'er the mangled corse; Recalls them to the happy cot, SoO Dwells on the peasant's peaceful lot; THE SWISS PATRIOTS. dS Theo, j««riaf njt, '* the good and bravo ** Cao bear their praiaot in the ^rave; *' Sore trioMpb'a voice that rroda the tkjr ** Can butb the widow** noan, tbe orpban't cry.** *' Go, coward !** criea a chief, wboie ftoul Spoma at tbe tjraat*a bate cootrol ; Who ottkca tbt patriot'a bold reply, ll\1lb halftaro'd foot, and scoruful eye; ** Go, coward ! aetk aome looely cave, 800 ** And shroud thee io a liviof grave, ** Far from these mouotaina, vale, and giro, ** Tbe baoots of freedoa, hamta of m— ; ** AimI woald'at tbo« cheer thy looely way, ** Chanat o>r the patriot's kimple lay ; 64 • THE SWISS PATRIOTS. ** Would'st thou dispell thy languid gloom, " Visit the warrior's honoured tomb." Albert with warmth the theme resumes, While patriot fire his eye illumes, " Look round, where'er the view is cast, 870 " Behold the scenes of valour past ; •' Valour which freedom sav'd or won, " Transmitted from the sire to son. •• I'Veedom, the noblest gift e'er given " To mortals by indulgent heaven ; " Shall we not hold — shall we forego, " What we to future ages owe ? " The foes now come, as erst they came, *' And fought, but nought they reap'd but shame. THE 8WUB PATRIOTS. M ** Yr«, tbtjr mmi By. u fort bare fled 8m ** Before tbe bftods by freedom led." ** Ab !" cries t cbief, botry witb yetiit ** Tbovfb «fe our yoatbfal feeliaga SMrt, '* Yet tbftt, froB bioi coald oe'er depart, ** \^1»icb aoimatct tbt fret— *» bettt ; ** A feelinf borne tbroofb every clime, ** Not lettcn'd but loiprov'd by time. ** A fee tloaf oar iKMintaia roaau, " Sball oar Talley* see m tUvc* ! ** Warrior* view yoar bappy bone*. 9$B ** Warrior* eiew your (atbei't fravca." He paaaes — Ibrov* aroand bia eyea, Eacb warrior fnoft km sword abd erica, u3 66 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. " Helvetia shall be free !" The clariop sounds, the banner waves. While echo from a thousand caves, Proudly riding on the gale, Proclaims o'er mountain and through vale, " Helvetia shall be free !" The wolf arous'd, starts from his den, 900 And stalking forth to op'ning day, Quick throws his eye along the mountain grey. And stands awhile, then seeks his lair again. The eagle in her aerie high and rude. Startled, turns from her half consumed food. And on the cloud that the high summit veils Throws her huge bulk, leaving her brood, And, screaming, with extended wings she sails. TBB 8WISB PATRIOTS. n Till siokiog frOM Ibe cIoikI ber giM, The warlike boat io dread array turteya; 010 7be fort takiof ibe rarly dowa Have paaa'd alonf tbc oioMauiD'a hetfbl. While all aroQDd Ibeii track arc Ibrown, The martial souimU of drum and horn, Sieeliof the fearful aoul for igbl ; The foat aUrm'd fliea in affiij^ht. And aeeks the rockjr summit high, 1 hen alandii aud fines on the foes its aje. Ab ! c oma ihr lung extended bands With social arts these eales to deck ; OalO They com«— tbc tyrant so commands. To iwino dudM fotuul tha frecmaD'a n«ek ; 63 THE SWISS PATRIOT^. Nature is lovely to the sight. Fair in the vale, grand on the height ; Yet vain is all her winning art. And vain are all her varied charms To captivate the foes' stern heart. Eager to mix in wars alarms. The sword which glances in morn's glow. Thirsts for battle, and death, and woe. The foes marshall'd for fight now sweep Along a narrow vale, -Tlie flasbet bright. And iiinokr, tnd tbo«ts, tmd decp'Mig iwr, Svrllin; More awful tbatt baferv, Agsia aanovBce afar the aaingliag figbl : The fcmalea in the vale the conflict Mar, And at each volley atart with fear. At to the height tbry raiae their e]r«a. And breathe endeared Maea ia aigha. Mii Each patriot argaa oa wat'a lail« At ht who flghM haai de hit hoaie. H«-«id« bia fiitb^f'a loaih, I'lKHi hia nativr «mI, u2 70 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. Where freedom holds her reign. And happiness her hallow'd fane; But, ah ! the foes in dreadful frtrce. Fresh, keen for war, urge on their course ; Will ye, warriors, quit the field, Will ye to a tyrant yield, 1040 View your happy vale below — A patriot cries — of mighty name. Will ye stamp this field whh shame, Will ye e'er your freedom give. To a tyrant, and yet live ? They rally, stand with dauntless biow And many a foe is there laid low. Yet, ah ! though danger's form they brave. TIIK 8W188 PATRIOrre. tr Tbcjr jfield — Can oowfbt their coMiliy t«tr«— Sball frccdoa r'rr, %m cooMOf jcart, M1A0 Vtcw tk«M vtllejrs ihrosfb ber tmn. And Ace BOMf bt but the frecMMi** grav« ? A fragmeut from a fraaiic oMta i« broke. Another aod aootbcr it rifca. And oalba (oi% »itb f«iy 4rivcji ; Wbicb &I), roU. bottod vitb dtcadfbl tboek : Tbe fof thtAt tjM in trcpidaiiMi raJM^ And oo tbe wbrlaiag mint fast. Which throttf h their lagioM forai a 1mm, UH0 Then harbof , MHindiof, twtap towarda tba fkim. Ah. what a paaaa I htm atUl tmi draw; The baoda look ro«ad with traabliof^brtalb, ■ 3 78 THE SWISS PATiiiors. Survey the hideous form of death. While war still vibrates on the ear. The foes whose cheek again with ciiinson Jyed, Keen as blood-hound that tracts his g^aine With steady foot, and eye of flame. Close, and ascend with martial pride ; The patriots still in dauntless mood. With cheerings brave, but low and hoarse, 107(1 Thoygh oft is wet the foot with kindred blood Their bodies give to stem war's course ; But all iu vain, though valour nerves eac!) hand, T\wy slow retire before the hostile ban Or stray beside his peaceful home. The pass is gain'd, the cannon rang'd. Their eyes toward the vale they throw, Then bid defiance to the foe. While cheering looks are interchang'd. Still as the silent hour of night Each patriot stands, resolved to trace With his corse a burial plaCe, Or conquer in the fight ; . 1100 The battle rising swells around More wrathful, awful, and profound ; While death, beneath the smoky gloom. Reveling in the vengeful strife. nui $mm patrjots. »i And puuriaf oat tb« tiraan of life, OivM mauy a hero to ihe tomb. Krukljr (be pus the foes assail. Though lung aud ktsbborn is the shock, 1 1 10 Tbcj hall, recede, and nano'iing fail, like waves rccediaf froa a rock ; Struck trith aaa^r, with ire aod shaae, Calliog to miod their aocieot fame, Again they 6gbi, again they abriitk : Now, patriots, raise your courage 6tm sod bish, And bravely seise on victory ; I Ur foes are ou destruction's briuk. Speedily ciimb the noniilaiu*s crrsl» toseeo, and quick be your career ; I IM 82 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. Descend upon their wavering rear. And give your valleys rest. Ere yet the smoke has died away. The band descend in close array. Like the dread Avalanche in its course. Sweeping with a tremendous force. The wav'ring foes turn to the height. The patriot band opes to their sight- Soon, soon the battle will be done — They fly — the victory is won ! 1130 The locusts floating on the wind The Arab sees, bend to his fields, Ready to snatch what autumn yields. While want and ruin ngitate his mind, Ill£ &WI&S fATRK/rs. m Witb khutldcrtDf (tur be >tn! ■■§ «*tb thvdf riof cjro, Tbon hides btr in tbo aorfcj sky* Ijtvnng ber trace* on tbo ffooud, lo twiligfat, darfcacot norc profouod. Above, a fraoitc's pond'tdM boo* Haoga gloomy o'er tbe coofltct's poi» : 1 17f> Wbilo »eor at band, tbo piaos and ook* Pending o'er tbe giaot rocfcs, Throogb the night's vdl, dreary sod diai. Wave their bogo foiw, obscart and gi i» : I hG THE SWISS PATRIOTS. 'I he dismal whoop of flitting owl. And (he vex'd watch-dog's distant howl, Blend with the cunent's querulous tone, And — 'tis the warrior's djing^ moan. An aged m^n, whose locks are grey, Rests on his staff, guide of his way, 1 180 And musing o'er the field of strife', Laments the wreck of human life ; 1 he moon, a momentary glow. Reflects on his uncover'd brow ; \Vi\h solemn pause he lifts his eye. And points it to the cloady sky ; — " Great One, thy vast eternal plan *' Is shrouded from the view of man ; riiK SWISS pATuian. m '* Ycl, ab ! mhtm tball »ar*» iMrnMs tfrnt, ** And mm m broihrra live id peace ? I ItMl •* (Urk ! bit MMiof Mrmin b brokr, ** U it ibe pcMSBt't f w q— t vtrokr, " Prepahog for tbe TaJiani dead ** Tbe last, tbe dark, but boiioar*d hrd } ** b it tbe woundrd'e atUlj (roea, '* On night*! rar uopilyiog ibtown } ** N»— 'tis a fcnulr'a throbbipf aioaa, ** 1 see afar brr wbtte robe fleam " lo the OMoa'a qaick paaMaf bea«; " Now paosiof , abe aovco beaeily. VJf*i ** Now her fooUlepe aeen lo fljr, '* Now the ftiop* and bcmlt hei ryr 88 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. " Low o'er the dead, with tremulou'i fear, *' To find a much lov'd object there ; ** From the cold corse she back recoils, *♦ Looks round, renews her frantic toils ; ** Wailing, upon her lover calls, ** Shrinks at the sound — it fearful falls : " She stops, and then with timid tread, " Winds her sad path among the dead." 12 K' Near to the hoary sire she comes, '1 is beauty moving o*er the tombs ; " Old man," she speaks full of alarms, *' Where is he, bring him to my arms ; " Is he in life, or in death's skep, *' Fain, fain I would, but cannot weep ; 11IE 8WB8 PATBIOIS. a» ** And is he Uico, ah ! eo«ld Muybt mtt ** To utt nj lover frooi the gtmtt .* ** Pity BM, r«lhcr— «h ! I rave." Oo the fair eoe he real* hi» eve« |±lil And piij five* to f riaC a aigli ; Hi* pity and his faallaMia, Arc sootbiDf lo bar miad'* diatic«*. *' Lady, ihia aeena, thia aolitudc, ** It for thy leoder frsMe loo radc . ** But, tell nCf whither woutdu choa %lfay, ** And 1 »iil f«ide thee oo thy «ay: ** A friend tbo« aack'al aao«f the alaia ? " Terbapa be iivaa, Iby aeaich ia vaUL 90 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. " Perhaps," hope in her bosom speak* I'JSO And flushes o'er her pallid cheeks, ** lie lives ! away vain hope ; ah, no ! *• He fell beneath the hostile blow." She swiftly glides, with pausing breath Ceases — seems rooted to the earth. While o'er a corse her eye is bent, Poring upon each lineament ; Convulsions all her features move, •' Ah ! 'tis my Conrad, 'tis my love !" I24t) Her tone subsides in throbbing breath, Her heart seems in the grasp of death ; Chill is her brow, giddy her brain, She sinks, his arms her frame sustain : THE SWISS PATKIUTS. 91 Though bl«idi*d bb brow, be j^icf bo* frli, Aod Inro'd at other's wurs to mh-Ii ; NU arms sostaia the werpiog fair. He o'er her bowb vitb aaaiow air, WatchM her cye'a rctutiiiaf glaaai, laattiog froa lb* b«art*a wtum alrvaa ; VJO/O Wbtla hi* few hoary loefca art fowtng O'er her pale cheek, to lately gluwing; How pale each feature, yet cowpnead. Her lipa apart, her eye half doMNl, She looks the alataa'a faire»t aKNild, Graceful aa it— «laMat aa cold. A flaah acroas her check » iprcad» Life U not fiom her hoaai fled ; 92 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. She opes her eye, turns round her brow, And wakes again to life and woe. 12G0 The patriots by vict'ry led, Pursu'd the foes, who vanquish'd fled ; While Faroe exulting sought the vale, And spread the glad but mournful tale ; The foes are vanquish'd in the strife. But many a patriot gives up life : Albert's sad spouse inquir'd of Fame, " Ah ! is he safe" — no answer came ; Day pass'd— she sat absorb'd in grief. Night came, but with it no relief. 12^70 " No longer here can I delay, " He dies, I trace the mountain's way ;'* THE SWISS PATIIIOTS. ^ She left the vale, but not alone, Her lovely boy to grief uukoown. His little band in her's entwin'd, Pratling tripp'd with wondtring mind. Day's sweet and vai led minstrelsy, • W'hicb Nature pours from ev'ry tree, And wakes in ev'ry grove an4 bush. The hours of night to silence hush : 1280 Yet not in silence did night rergn, Honor was in her dark'ning train, While mantled with a dismal shroud, Form'd by the dim and tolling cloud, She seens'd te moan along the vale. And o'er the falai field lu wail. 9* THE SWISS PATRIOTS. The mother, child in such a night, Sought the dark field where raged the fight. Her bosom sway'd by hope or dread, She hop'd him living, fear'd him dead ; 1290 Kind hope that would our grief beguile. And turn the sigh into a smile. Pitying looked upon her woes, A moment calm'd them to repose ; A momen*, and hope's cheering beam, Fled like the fabrick of a dream. And left the wish that hastes to know What most we fear, the sum of woe. As their lone way they keen pursu'd. Fearful his steps, pensive her mood, 1300 TIJE 8WBB PATRIUTS. M The; teiicbed « wdl- known Ktnr, ■ buwtr. Where ofl, wheneVr the gcuial hour O'ercaoopied ibe »pot with khadr. And flowers nroaad profmely tptead, Albert nnd his beloved male, Ettdrd'd by their children sal. Tasting the tranquil happiocae. Which ne'er can cloy by its ctons; Her eye turn'd rowid, her nniiiaea'd eye, - Whila MMM'ry heav'd the kn^ihca'd stfh, 1310 Past joy, like a defined shade, I'pon her wc«|Nn( fancy play'd. The field was reach'd with pansing IreMf, ' She trac'd her way aaiMig ibi- dead, ^6 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. Fearful, yet anxious to survey Tlie spot where her lov'd Albert lay ; The shrinking boy, who with her stray'd, Seiz'd on the ground a shining blade. Upheld it to his mother's view ; She lookM — the sword she, shrieking, knew, 1320 'Twas Albert's sword — " He is no more, *' My hope is fled, my joy is o'er !" No more she said, but bent her head. Sunk on the warrior's gory bed. The boy, his arms her neck entwio'd. Upon her throbbing breast reclin'd. Weeping and calling on her name. The heart's warm flood glow'd througli her frame T!IF. SWIM PATRIOTS. 97 Aibrft beoeatb • tocL's rode Saw — hrard^aiid f rirv'd ; fthort «m lh« ifMCv, He rali'd, she tuned fron the gnmrni, tail Look'd round, amat'd, ** Whence romm that umidH ?** Ajifain be cali'd, abe paaa'd to bear. The well kMma voice fell 00 ber eor ; ** T» be ! there, there, I ae« bin real," She flew aod took opon bta breaat. ** Who hither cornea/* a f^op u ^''^n Padof aloog the dreary tceoe. 'Tin Albrtt by tb« peaaaMt boroe, *' Ah ! ia be fro« bit eoootry lora ? 1340 " No, brave be ttood tbe battle grooud, *' And fightinf fell wiib honour ciowa'd ;*' 98 THE SWISS PATRIOTS. But not in death : his aim again ^hall freedom's hallow'd rights aiaintain ; His heart yet in the vale shall prove. The joys of friendship and of love ; His spouse belov'd, the hinds precede. Follows the group with lingering tread, While oft the sigh floats in the air, But not the sigh of dark despair. 1350 Health, peace, revisits Albert's eot. His battle toils, her fears forgot : Wiih joy they see their children bloom. And grace their humble happy home. T1IE SWnS PATRIOTS. M ^'noDf Cottf«d*t aahtn \om\j rest, Such «M bit last and sad bcbrst. Within the vale, aigh to the tbade. Where oft he with bis mialrcaa stray *d s Matilda, at era's stilly bovr. When Nalor* calas md a— t bsa meh power, I30D I« seen oft o'er his tamh to WM, Noaroini: the lover and the friead. 100 THE FJIEEMAN*S GRAVE. Hallow'd be the freeman's grave, Who in the battle nobly fell, Hither come ye young and brave Sons of freedom, sons of Tell 1 Sons of freedom, sons of Tell ! Nurs'd like you on freedom's breast The foes he met — couquer'd — fell — With his sires he lies at rest. THE Fft£BMAN*S GRAVE. 101 i'atrio;, coaie with food acclaim, Ho«af« pay to librrty. And wbilr Echo soundi bis name. On bis tomb airrar to be frer. Wanior come, Iriaapbanl come. Will joa->dare jou be a slare ? See bis abrioe, heboid your home. Here is space for oiaoy a f rave« Maidra come, all fair and yoaog. Garlands form of fairest bloom, While yon wake the patriot's souf * Wave tbem roaml the hero's tomb. k3 102 THE INFANT BOY. Scene — AJioicery Bank. All at ease the blooming boy. While his eye beams full of joy, Smiling on the bank reclines, Where each charm of spring combines ; Fair the flowers in clusters rise, Glist'ning with unnumber'd dyes, TlIE INFANT BOY. 109 itrrailiing oo lb* ftle ibeir awecit. As it o'er their boMOi fleets ; Near s muruuriog tlreamlet flows, Ihrou^ the meads where Flora glows. Notes that eaiaoate from love, Warbling hunt from jrouder grove ; Sweet the notes — if love itupire. Sweeter than the mosc's lyre, \Vh«o its magic tonca impart. Thrilling raptare to lb« boart* All is mirth, sod all ia joy, Pleasara leads the laoghiog boy ; Full of Glee, be dsocts roaod. Tripping with elastic bound ; 101' THE INFANT BOY, What desires his joy-fraught soul. Does he crave the flowing' bowl, Does he call for wisdom's lore. Or for Croesus* envied store ? No — to these he cries — away ! Give me only time for play. Playful boy what joy i« thine, Oft 1 sigh, oh ! were it mine : What is all the joy of years, Joy e'er blended with our fears ; But no cloud along thy sky. Louring frights thy laughing eye ; Ne'er does thought obtrusive say. Vain thy pleasure, short thy day ; TIIR INFANT BOY. 10& SmiliBf &nry lakes iby baad, Ijrmd* ihM throagh h«r/airy Uod, Drifca obtniKif e tbouglila away, Thoa^bu tbat darken lifv'i abort day* Now be crops the breatbiog flower. Nursling of tbe venial boir, Views its bloom wttb lau^biog glee. Emblem rosy boy of tbec ; Fair it seems, but soon its dye Fadfh opoo th' admiring eye, Thos tbe bloom upon tby brow, Chiird by af«*a witberirg snow, Siion fthall fade, and in its place, A]^ iif furrow'd fooislrps I rare : 106 THE INFANT BOY. Shall be then his joys forego ? Nature fondly cries— oh, no ! Sport my boy while all is gay, Fleet, ah, fleet is man's short day ! Soon thy laughing prime is o*er, Soon thy joys shall charm no more, Soon shall care with scowling eye. Bid youth's airy visions fly. Now be marks the vagrant bee, Vagrant, little boy, like thee ; Circling o'er the flowery sweets. With observant eye it fleets. Till its tiny foot seeks rest On the tulip's gaudy breast ; TIIF. INFANT BOY. IU7 Siuw,oo liplor, CM bin IrrMJ, Ucoding o'er the Bowtry bed, Vicwinf with a ttrainiof eje, Kacb neaoder of the fly. Till into the bell it glides Where ibe honied store resides; Now, he cries, io laof biuf tone* Little thing tboQ art my owa : Now 1 have ihee ! Up it aprinfs. On ii» little huainiiBf wings, ** Ah ! 'tis Bed," h« whining cries, ** Y(r«, O, see, it froa ■• flies !" Wanton boy, dost thou not know, rhat oft pleasure tends lo «os ; 108 THE INFANT BOY. Let e'er reason point thy way. Fancy, passion lead astray ; Fancy lures the fervid sight, Passion wings the feet for flight, While deceit lurks at the goal. And with anguish loads the soul. The butterfly on waving wing. Offspring of prolific spring. In the gayest colours drest. Floats on zephyr's fragrant breast ; Now it flits from flower to flower, Lured by Flora's winning power ; " There it conies," he fluttering cries, «• Yes, 0, see — it hith«r flics — t- . TIIE IKTFANT BOY. lOt '« Hera it coo i et !** »ad all the while, He eyes it with a wiehfd taulc ; Lo ! be cow'ra behind • Toee, While wiib hope hi* boMMH glow* ; While ibe By on kkimming plane. Seek* the roee*t blosbiof bloom : Near it ei«n, behold it light, l-'all befoic kit ftowini; cifbt ; llttftb, DOW hush, be paotiog sif ha, Aad preparea lo aeixe bit prixe ; Forward, forward, flow bt beodi. And hi* lillle bat cxleods ; Pretty thiof , he sofiJy calla. Now, I have thee eq—h he falU— L 110 . THE INFANT BOY. With him falls the rose and fly, And in mingled ruins lie ! *' Now I have thee, little thing, *' Nought avails thy velvet wing, '• Would'st thou fly me, fly from me ?" This he says in laughing glee. While his eye with fervour roves. As his hat he slow removes ; Flush'd with joy, he searches round. Searches keen the rose-strew'd ground. Looks beneath the scatter'd leaves. But no butterfly perceives ; " Ah !" he says, " 'tis surely fled, " No, here it lies, but, ah ! 'tis dead." TIIF INFANT BOY. Ill When Ihit ^obe rose into btrtb, IM«asiir« flew from hrarrn to earth, Ijtd by Virtae, fair aud ^y, Sole cooipaoioii of her way, Ijong they oo the peacefd plain, Miogled with the rvral train, Till the city's walls aroM, Ngrsary of Man*a fteateat foes ; Wealth and Vice thence took their flifht, Ami'd with raocoar's felleat spite. To decoy the lof ely pair, Uoiospecting, in their snare ; Vice o'er Virtue soon prerail'd, Bat Wealth's aim o'er Plea«nr« WPd ; 112 THE INFANT BOY. Pleasure flew, and sought the shade, Wealth in vain pursuM the maid ; And e'er since she startled flies. Fearful of Deceit's surprise. Wouldst thou then fair Pleasure woo, Cautiously her steps pursue ; Follow Prudence as thy guide, Virtue moving by thy side ; They will guide thy youthful feet, To her gay sequester'd seat. Hark, what sound, it floats afar, 'Tis the deep'ning clang of war ; Haste, haste, bring the .moving lyre. Rouse the glow of martial fire ; TIIR INFANT BOT. ns Palriolt, lurch • Meet the foe upon tb« ttraMl ; Pttriois, march, your cooatry nve. Or like ISrilooa find a frsvt. Crase the iheBc — baah'd b« ibc Btri»f, lufrfot cports, Dot war, i riBf— How, mj boy, I love with thee. Sweet cooleot aud haraooj. Another tonod my earn inhale, SwdliDf on the ^nile gnln ; 'Tia the madd'nins floir of aoal, Rttinf ronnd the RMlkw bowl. Where the hamli of Folly twiM Nigbttbade roun«l the laieiMM viiw. L 3 114 THE INFANT BOY. Haste away mad Revelry, Ne'er my boy shall follow thee ; Wilt thou dare tp float along, Joining Nature's festive song ? Seek the cavern lone and deep. There thy noisy vigils keep^ Breaking on the midnight ear, For Innocence, thy foe, is here. Haste away, and leave the plain, Bear afar thy hateful train ; Discord that with ruffled brow, Hates the bosom's tranquil flow ; Fear that with disordei-'d breatli, Flies from shadows as from death, TIIE INFANT BOY. lis And, far beaee Im mmU Doptir, Sitiiof Willi disbeTell'd hair; Mosio^ with coovnUcd fa 00 a deed ftbe dares not SiUI a touod apoa ik» gale FImU aloof tbe flowery itU ; *Tis Cooteot, with lovely nien, Sportiof on the villago giMa ; Saootbiog the roogh brow of toil. With her gweet aod airy smile : 1 he cbattiag old, with Tacaot miud, £v«ry aoxtooa car* raaiga'd, Ficas'd, with f Unciaf eye survey The youthful circlea at their play. 116 . tHE JNFANT boy. Seasons roll, but can they bring To old age a second spring ; Ah ! does Nature e'er disclose On the snowy plain the rose ? Age decays — decay it must, And embrace its native dust; Yet the aged rustics glow Under age's chilly snow ; For content, with pleasing sway, Bears their load of years away ; And they smiling view the throng, Though blanch'd their heads, their hearts are young. The hoary shepherd by the brook. Slumbers o'er his smoke-stain'd book; THE INFANT BOY. itr Or parsMt with Tscaot gsM The bright trout that waoteo piaj* ; While hi* dog, with balfdoa'd ejret. Liitle«s M hit muter lica ; Froa beneath hit bushy lockl, Koond hia eje turreyt bis flocks ; Par lh«y stisy, sows o*tr the rill, Sone have ciinb'd a distant hill ; V\j — be pototiog cries to Tray* Tray alsrts up, and apriofs away • All the flocks their beads apraisr. And look round with laaid pto » Then they fearful rva, sod bleat, DasM the lanbkios bounding um^I ; 118 THE INFANT BOY. Quick the stragglers startled fly To the flocks with piteous cry, While Tray, panting, trotting comes, And his grassy couch resumes. Now a lamb, with frolic wild. Skipping comes towards the child ; And when near it lifts its eye — Stops, but seems prepar'd to fly. " Tender thing, with snowy vest, " Gentle look, and panting breast, " Fly me not, for who could be " Cruel, pretty lamb, to thee ?" This he says, and forward glides - It starts away — he whispering chides. THE INFANT BOY. IM It ftkipt— he rans, and as Jte 0if«, Ardoar kindk* io bis ejes. While each lovely ioiaiit grace Blushes on his glowing dee. It pauses— and then looks behind, Hope rekindles in bis niad ;' Quick, more quick, the lanb in riev. His liffal feet the chase pursue ; He runs— he bounds— how light bis tread, Springing o'er the printless OMad, ** I will catch thee !" loud be cries. Panting as he onward fliea, " 1 wUI catch thee !"->WonU how tiid,-. He loiters — ialls upon the plain; 120 TM'Dsri?ANf BOY. And when lying on the ground. Daisies gemming all around. His pouting looks appear to say, '* How, little lamb, thou spring'st away !' Thus full oft, my roving boy. We pursue some fancied joy ; Meteor-like, its glimmering ray Tempts us far from virtue's way ; But before bright reason's beam All decays like fancy's dream. When young Spring with timid foot Seeks the hazel's mossy root. And there shelter'd, anxious throws. Lovely flower, the pale primrose. TIIE INFANT BOY. Wl The little warbltrrs wnki the fnire With the thrilling: notes of love. Now the hen with luscious food, Gathered from the busbj wood. Thither wioft her rapid flight. Foil before the iofaot's tight. • *' Pretty bird !** he smiling; sighs, ** Pretty bird !" in mormor dies. As he views ber on the ground. Hopping, glancing all aroand ; Now ahe flatters— Ah ! bow blest * Hovering o*er her shaded nest. Just above her callow brood. Stretching, clamorous for food ; M 122 THE INFANT BOY. Forward, now his feet advance. Light as in the circling dance ; Then he stands with touching air, Charin'd to view a mother's care. i And the little chirping things. Flapping glad their half-fledg'd wings. Cease my Boy '.—With joy's bright flush He wishful opes the fragrant bush : This alarms her— mark her wiles, Mark how she the boy beguiles. Down she fluttering falls in view, Thus she courts him to pursue. Thus she tries with trembling breast To lure the wanton from her nest ; THE INFANT BOV. IIS He tiipt, be cries witb outsiretch'd ami— ** I will guard thee from all bami !'* Down he benda with eager glee, Ab ! By bejr, she dtttt (torn thee. Now balf-roDDiog, now balf-flyiog, Huiteriog, rolliogy piteous crying ; Quick or slow, as is bis paoe» Far she wiles him in tbe chase* Till with pendent wing she drops On tbe grass's tufted tops. Full of hope, with eager limbs. O'er the niesd he nimbly kkims To the spot, tbe gmasj tomb, Whef c she sunk with listless plume ; 124 TOE ll^FANT BOY. But when near, she wings her way. Chanting to a lofty spray. While he stands transfixed, amaz'dj, , Gazing with his eye uprais'd. Why, my child, that wond'ring mien ? All illusive is the scene ; With her art, art to decoy, She has lur'd thee, wanton boy ; From the flower-twin'd boughs that bear A mother's joy, a mother's care. Thus my little laughing boy Dances through the maze of joy; Cheerly as the dew-flush'd dawn, Moving o'er the vernal lawn. THE IlfFANT BOY. «& 8hill I bit! him drooping mourn O'er WoiUi's grave, or Beaoiy'g uru ? Shall I chilly bid him view Ills that mortal life pursue ! Or bis foolslep* from the bower l.ead unio the mould'riog lower ? A ltd with eye despondiag say — Mark that emblem oTdecay ? No— Boy, rcYel in delight. While thy tripping foot is light ; While BO grief, nor carts imparl SiMioesa to thy laighiog heart. Age may, aa it tita aloue. Sigh for pleasarea felt, but gone— M a 186 THE INFANT BOY. Age may say — " What does life seem ?" Life is but a lengthen'd dream. Languid gleams our close of day When Hope's radiance dies away ; But to thee the morn is new, Then Mirth's festive steps pursue ; Tuneful rapture wakes the grove. Breathing only strains of love ; Beauty walks along the plain. All the graces in her train ; While Enchantment's lovely mien Lends soft lustre to the scene. Shall a tear those. eyes bedim. Which, in laughing pleasure swim ? THE INFANT BOY. Yet— 6ow bU tear* — but like tbe shower Glist*DiDg OD tbe Texoal flower. Which the gmle with tepid lip* From its fragrant boMMi tipa. Giaaabopper, with chirping sosf , Tbee tbe sommer l«adt aloiif ; When the brings her roty train To sport opon tbe sonny plain ; Insect of the genial bottr» Dost thoa court tbe shadowy bower ? Or, beneath the flow'ret shed. Dost thou rest tby tiny bead * Tell me, whither dost thou stray i Where is beard tby pleating lay ? 128 THE INFANT BOY. Hark ! I hear t!-iee, insect, nigh, Unveil thee to my infant's eye-; Hither move with springing bound, For he hears thy chirping sound, And his ardent eye quick chatiges, Round and round it glancing ranges, While he eager list'ning bends. And his watchful hand extends. Near it comes; full in his sight He wishful trembles in delight; Down he bends — Ah ! how it springs- Hiraself he glowing forward flings. Grasping with impassion'd eye, And the gently heaving sigh. TUE INFANT BOY. ' 11» Dwt*riiif flowers that weave a kbed Peodeat o*er Iht insecl'i head. *' Thou art nioe," he crtea with glee, ** Then shalt chant thy soog to me." Vaio thy words) — ** Now thou art mine ** FIvw'ry spoiU are ooly tjiioe." ThM, my boy, when we pursue FiDCted joy that seemn in view, I'ull of hope— >we eager move To (he object of our love ; Bat whene'er we fondly say* ** It is onr's," it fleeu away ; fitill the vision scenw to rise— • We run, but as we run, it flir» ; ,^ ,• 13b THE INFANT BOY. Till, undeceiv'd, we sink in pain. And hopeless say the joy is vain. The restless hive, that summer's voice. Bids in humming strains rejoice, Circled 'mid the balmy flow'rs, Revels through the sunny hours. Sweetest insect ! busy bee ! Grateful is thy song to me. When the morn with oiient glances. Smiling, down the hill advances. How I love to see thee move Through the new awaken'd grove ; Or, with quivering pinions, brush The dew that gems the fmgraut hush. TliE INFANT BOY. ISl When the day with fenrid glow Ileams opoo the laogaid brow, Aod at ease, within the bow*r, Lall'd by Fancy's soothing pow'r. How I love to hear tbee aing, Flatt'ring on thy shining wing, Roand the bluahiag bed of ioa«a, >Vhere tir'd Nalarv*s self repoa^ When mild ere with soften'd eya Glaocfs o'er the western sky. Burnishing, with mellow hue, The tranquil Undicapa to the view ; When the peasants ling'riug comc To their humble happy hoM«, 132 THE INFANT BOY. When with hollow pausing low Homeward winds the sluggish cow, Ah ! how sweet thy hum to hear. Passing o'er the listless ear, Whil^ thou holds't thy rapid flight, Flying from the dewy night. Enchanted stands the laughing boy. Viewing, through the smile of joy. The busy insects' clust'ring throng. Wheeling, darling swift along; Some on rising wing prepare To skim along the listless air. To the mountain's heathy biow, Or the flowery val« belov7 ; TBVINPANT DOT. jss Soae raUirniuf from the fields Bear ibe bdm that Kamoif r yields ; Tb« babu of maay a rrsfrant Bower Natlur'd by the genial sbower. His little foot, Ibat restless roves, tilidiof forward slowly moves, Wbtio b« views ibe banning tbiogs llov'iing on ibeir little wings ; •• Ah !" be says, witb beaning eye, " laaacta, bow ye plsyfal Ay !" Ope to me your little cells, Wbere tlie treaaor'd booey dwells. Hb moving foot still forward tends, Down bis bead be feariessjbeods, 1S4 THE INFANT BOY. While his peering eyes explore The entrance to their precious store. Wanton boy ! retire ! retire ! The bees are rous'd with vengeful ire; Round thee dread alarum pours, Round thee danger frightful lours, Furious from the hive they throng, Loud their ire they hum along ; Wheeling round his head they dart. Terror trembles at his heart, Trembles through his little frame. Kindles up his eye in flame. With waving hat, and pliant limbs, Panting o'er the grass he skims ; THE INFANT DOY. ISft bkiuiiniog like the fleetio|p wind, LetTiof til hit foes behind. Od tbf gtwm't velvet bed. Where the garden's balm i« theii. Danger put, hit fear* restgn'd. All at ease he lies reclin'd ; While he wipes bis dewy brow. And hi« cheek of Tennil glow. Ah ! when Pleasure's sprightly song Would thy footsteps lead along, Pause and view with musing eye. Whether woes in ambush lir. Siuce, my boy, with sobtle wiles, Sliiouded iu iht blandest smiles. 136 THE INFANT BOY. Pleasures oft the young decoy With th' illusive form of joy. With light foot the gay and young. Tread the maze of life along; But when age with chilly sway Hovers o'er their misty way, And, ah ! time that opes the rose Strews the brow with age's snows ; All the dreams of youth are fled. Airy fancy's self is dead. Naught of joy the mind retains, Naught save virtue's charm remains. Now with lightsome sports opprest Languor creeps along his breast ; THE INFANT BOY. ie7 While slerp •wcetljr boTering oigh Ktr»ts upon bis beavy tyt, Hi* head rtclioes, his eyelids close, Duwu be sinks beDesth a rose. Whose kiod shade with blaabiog grace. Waving, cools his glowing face. Diasoiv'd in balmy sleep he lies. How fair he teems in fimey's eyrs ! 'I be swelling rose, wiib blushing glow. Waves upon his saowy brow ; While the gale, on whisp'ring wing. Shedding round the balm of spring. Blandly with eacb riagltt plays, • As il o'er his temple strays. N 3 1S8 THE INFANT BOY. While round his lips that warm exhale The fragrance of the vernal gale, Wanton smiles in ambush lie Watchful of his opening eye. Fair he seems as infant Love Slumb'ring in th' Idalian grove ; While the Graces, circling round, Beat in dance the spicy ground. Glancing oft with flush of joy On the beauteous sleeping boy. 1S9 HUBERT AND HIS CHILDREN. 'Mid pMtorel •cenet, where the Garonne Through vine-ciotb'd Tallies flows, Crown'd with conteot, and peace, and joy. The cot of llabert rose. * Two sons he had, of manljr form. Who lov'd their sire and home, His daof hter, Clara, biesa'd his age, Hia wife slept in the tomb. ■ — — ^^.— ^j^j^^— ^^^— ^— ^^1^— * The reader to whom this ttorv n known, will pereeitc that I hs*e altered one circumttancc :— Ilobttl bad tluso children, but ib«j were tbrea lOos. 140 HUBERT AND HIS CHILDREN. Hubert among his children sat, And pray'd with beaming eye, *' Thus 'mid them may I happy live, " Thus 'mid them may I die." But, ah ! too oft, when on life's path. Our sun seems all serene, ' The clouds collect, the tempest raves. And darkness shrouds the scene. Conscription like a whirlvrind came. And blasted his repose, " Young men, prepare," the mandate said, " Xp waich and meet the foes." IfUBERT AND HIS CinLDR£N. Hi How chaag'd the scene, how cbaog'd the cot, To mirth e'erwbile to dcftr, Tb« mirtli was cbang'd into a ai^ The saile ioto a tear. The sister wept, clung; rauod each youth, The (ather sigh'd foriojo. When my life'a journey near ia o'er. My soos are from me tora. Sad was the scene, ibe youths were mov'd, Hut time refused delay. They bade farewell — they left their cot, And haxirn'd on their way. 142 HUBERT AND HIS CHaDllEN. They reach'd a hill, and tuin'd them iound» Their cot was still in yiew. Their sister, sire, before it stood — They waved a last adieu ! Soon train'd, the brothers join the bands,. Reposing on their arms, Waiting with anxious eye the morn To mix in war's alarms. Danger still more endears their hearts. They muse on their sad lot. Talk of the joys of early life. The joys that bless'd their cot. nUBKRT AND HIS CHILDREN. 14S The mora awakes, all oatare smiles. The trampet soands— adTance ! The youths oft iteal, as slow they move, A fearful, sideloaf ginee. Awfol the pause — uear and more near The bands approach, enga]^e, lioad and more load the battle poors Aronnd its pealing rafs. The yanths prcaa on, their blood rolls quick, Their co«rafe now moonts high. Their courage triumphs o'er their fear. And flashes in each eye. 114 HUBERT AND HIS CHILDREN. The youths press on, a fatal ball. Pierces young Egbert's breast, * • «'?■ " My brother," he exclaims, " I die," And sinks with death oppress'd, Henry, the sad survivor, stands ifj fi.>w J And raves in frantic tone, II *? H Then, like a statue, fixed he looks. For reason quits her throne. " Hubert, old roan, where are thy sons !" One, cold lies upon the ground. The other — ah ! more direful fafe. With idiot stare looks round. HUBEBT AND HIS CHILDREN. 14A WhU« ev« cits smiliaf on tb« hiib, AimI Uboar's toil is o'er, Hm (ktber and the daoghter sit. Before the cabio door. TlMy talk of the Itelovod yoatbt. Their Ef bcrt'i Aite they noani ; Bot DOBffat they know of Heory*f fate. And hope bis qoick retam. ** One son bas AUIee," tbe father sigbt, «« I bow to Heaven's dwiM ; •* Yet Henry lives !** old au be livfs. But not, alas ! for tbe«. o 14^ HUBERT AND HIS CHILDREN. Not distant far—two men they see, Hi ?ri-« Towards their cot repair ; " '■■>■. ♦ They look intent — and murmuring say, ■ .s ♦' 'Tis Henry's form and air." nttjirj ^^■t--ji f • He spurns her from him with disdain, i ■ And stands with idiot ga?,e. HtTBERT AND HIS CHILDRRN. 147 She looks tfliast, with fHeasied air. The shock o'erwhelnas her mind ; Thy daa^ter, aod thy soto, old man. Are in one (ate conbin'd. Habert tarns roand his lanfoid brow, No children meet bis eya; *' I sit alone, last of my race,** He breatlies in moamfal sigb. At liases be leaves bia lonely home And seeks the maoiac*s cell, llr sees a son and daughter'n form. And slfbs his bosoM swelL 148 HUBERT AND HIS CHILDREN. He calls them by endeared names ; But, ah, no sire they know ! He o'er them bends and mourns his loss. Musing in speechless woe» Hubert, alas ! lone is thy cot, ' And sad thy aged breast,— Life seems to thee a cheerless waste. The grave will be thy rest* 149 THE SHEPHERD. Dabk the aifht, tbe ttana rtaooMled, Joba and Jean before the fire. By their little one* sarrouaded, Fearleee beard tbe tempAt'e ire. John a little prattler smiliaip Fondly dandled on hia knee. Thrifty Jran. the honia btgnilia;, Tam'd the wheel with talking glne. o.l # 150 THE SHEPHERD, John unto the prattler listen'd With a parent's partial ear. Then his eye with fondness glisteu'4 As he view'd its mother near. Oft she turnM a look of pleasure On the group that smil'd aroundy The fond group was all her treasure. In their smiles her joy she found. '^ Loud," Jean said, " the storm is blowing. While she paus'd and turn'd her brow ; *' Ah !" said John, " the wind is throwing O'er the field the drifting snow." ■SU** IIIB SUBPtlERD. l&l John anwc— fthe fearfal ^Uocing, Stad, ** The tbeep are io the fold ?" Noof ht be Mid, but slow advanciof , Tbe warm plaid aronnd htn roll'd. ** Jean," be said, *' 1 will oot tarry,** Aa be vicw'd her fearfol eje, *• Wbat a nigbi, ob ! JobD be wary," And the cbeck'd a rising sigb. Tbrice be called on bis dog, lying Stnab'riog on bis beatby lair, ** Bran look'd np," bis OMSler eyeing^ " Rose, and walk'd wilb sluggish air. 352 THE SHEPHERD. *' Come," John cried, in accents cheering. And he op'd the cottage door; What a blast ! Jean, shrinking, fearing, Stood and heard the tempest's roar. John stalk'd forth, his body stooping. To defend his sun-burn'd brow, At his foot, his dog mov'd drooping, Cowering through the falling snow. " Ah !" she cried, ** the night is dreary," As she saw his bending form, John turn'd round, his words were cheery, But they died upon the storm. THE 811EPUKKD. 153 Children praltiiof , mother sigbinif. Stood apoa tho colUfo 6oor; Up tho hill Ihey saw him hyiof , Then they that the cottoge door. *• LMff,** ft child said, *« suys oar father,** Aod the raia'd her moaiof eye, Aaother u^ ** what dieadfol weather !'* Then she h«ftt*d a leogtheo'd sigh. Oh whene'er the tempest lowering. Beat against the latchet near ; Quick she lurn'd an eyo eiplorinf. Rut, alas ! John was Mt there. 154 THE SHEPHERD. Oft she turu'd, absorb'd in sorrow. To his chair, with the full te^i Fancy would his features borrow. But, alas ! John was not there. Sleep, that creeps o'er wearied nature — ■ • That oft lulls our wakeful woes, Seiz'd the young, stole o'er each feature. And Jean gave them to repose. But, ah ! sleep, that flies the wretched, Fled the mother's aching breast; *' ' O'er the dying embers stretched. Mute she sat, with grief oppress'd. THE SHEPHERD. ]#A Midnight came — the infant sleeping ','kh:-i ..A(' Wak'd, and cried in wailing tone, ., , , , , , , O'er the cradle she bent weeping, < Hush'd it with a mother's moan. " Sleep, my babe," she sigh'd in sorrow, " What can break thy tranquil sleep, *• Here I anxious wait till morrowy,. L :* .. ..,•.?,.] i " Now I can do nought but weep." Sleep, my babe, alas ! thy father ^* lii ' < Shall he see thy smile no more ? At this hour, and in such weather. Does he cold lie on the moor ? 156 THE SHEPHERD. John stalk'd forth — the tempest savage, Round the snow in eddies cast ; O'er the moor he saw its ravage. But despis'd its vengeful blast. Home— 'where liv'd each dear connexion, Cheer'd his fancy with delight, There, encircled by affection, Vain would rage the stormy night. On he walk'd with such thoughts cheering, Wand'ring o'er the trackless heath — Wrapp'd up in his plaid, nought fearing. But, alas ! he lost his path. THE SHEPHERD. 15? Long he wander'd — Bran beside him, Then he stopp'd, and look'd for home ; But the prospect was denied him, Nought he saw through night's dark gloom. Still he wander'd, fondly hoping, That his cottage would appear; ' But hope, low and lower drooping, Gave him up to chilling fear. All the prospect round ivas dreary. And no cot he could discern, I Drowsy, hopeless, faint, and weary, ^ Down he sunk beside a cairn. p 158 THE SHEPHERD. Life's warm stream began to languish, .} ;^i < !c! Now of every hope beguil'd, Low he breath'd in sinking anguish, O, my home ! my wife ! my child !" Faint he grew — by sleep o'ertaken, On his bosom bent his brow ; ,, ,i ?; ■ He who sleeps shall never waken, ■> ? » -, Cradled on the drifting snow.,,j,vfv.' -m -.nUi ^'^ ' John arous'd, by his dog howling, , ',,?» tii Rais'd his head with rau.rmuiiug breath. Oped his eyes — on the storm scowling. Shut them in the sleep of death. i THE SHEPIIERU. 159 Jeau in tears oft look'd for morning, Morning came with paly ray, Out she rush'd— each evil scorning. Up the hill she bent her way. Jean alone the waste pac'd mourning, While her breast for John did yearn, Round her eye quick glancing, turning, Fearful saw the sheltering cairn. To the spot, her footsteps hying, ' '*'^' *'-' Pale, she stood, with grief oppress'd ; John was cold — the dog was lying Stretch'd across his master's breast. 16i EDMUND AND HELEN. *' Yes go," said his sire, while his manly breast heav'd. And his asseut was breath'd in a moan ; The mother, exclaira'd, her arms round him entwin'd, ** Heaven guard my dear Edmund — my son !" The lover left home, and the scenes of his youth, The scenes where with Helen he stray'd, *• Poor youth !" heexclaim'd,ashopewaken'dtofame, " I yet may prove worthy the maid." On the heath-cover'd hill, through the long winding glen, Helen, musing, would wander alone, She mus'd o'er each scene, and then whisper'd in sighs, " Where is Edmund— my Edmund is gone." EDMUND AND UELEN. MS The pale bote bet tigh, in the itreem fdl her Iter, E'en Hbpc tccni'd to tarn fion her woes. Grief press'd on ber heart, dimm'd the glance in ber And pittck'd froB ber ebeek the fair rose. Her thoughts Inrn'd froB life, to the loBb tura'd ber ejre. There, there shall ny sorrows find rest; M J fistber ! when low in the UMub i repose. To p — e e , Gracioos One, cala bis breast. Will tJdnund e'er cobs ? it woald aoolhe mc to know, And bend o'er By dark narrow bed; 164 EDMUND AND HELEN. Recall each endearment, and think how I loved— ' >' I loved — soon I rest with the dead. Her father, with sorrow, beheld her pale form. And spoke in a parent's kind tone — " In thy life 1 exist, O ray child live for me — " For Edmund— he shall be my son." Soon a message was sent, joy gleam'd on despair. And lighted a glow in her eye; But 'twas like the glow of the fast setting sun — Joy faded away in a sigh. On the heights of Thoulouse, 'mid the brave British youth. The lover encounter'd the foe ; EDMUND AND HELEN 165 ** Tbcjr yieM/* he excbim*d, while the eMigo he waved, *' He tpoke, aod a ball laid bitn low." He fell on the field, jret he fell not in death, Tine'a lenient hand dosed the wound ; The acangv amved~>HeIen hails your retain, Joy tbtiird through his heart at the sound. He hasten'd to fly, home by Lore and by Hope, To clasp the fair maid in bis uiwm. He counted each hour, yet be tboaglit, on his lio«M — Oo Helen-^ber worth and her ehams. 164 EDMUND AND HELEN, Recall each endearment, and think how I loved—*, j" I loved — soon I rest with the dead. Her father, with sorrow, beheld her pale form, And spoke in a parent's kind tone — " In thy life I exist, my child live for me — " For Edmund — he shall be my son." Soon a message was sent, joy gleam'd on despair. And lighted a glow in her eye; But 'twas like the glow of the fast setting sun — Joy faded away in a sigh. On the heights of Thoulouse, 'mid the brave British youth. The lover encounter'd the foe ; EDMUND AND HELEN IM ** They yield/* he exclain'd, while the eMign h« waved, ** He ipoke, aod a ball laid him low." He fell on the field, yet be fell not in deaib, Time'a lenient band cloaed the wound ; The mesaage arrived— Helen haila your return, Joy tbriird through hia beait at the sound. He haalen'd to fiy, boioe by Love and by Hope* To claap the fair naid in hia aras* He coQoted each hour, yet be thouj^lit, on hia hone — Oo Helen — her worth and her chatms. 166 EDMUND AND HELEN. His home rose to sight, 'mid his own native vales, Eniaptur'd he gazed on the view, Asylum of peace ! food retreat of my yo'Uh ! To my wandr'ings I now bid — adieu 1 He enters his dwelling, his pareats he sees. But no cheerful greeting he hears ; He springs to embrace them — he pauses in fear, - They meet him in silence and tears. My sire, why that look ? why, my mother, that tear ? The pain of my bosom assuage— They fondly embrace him — But why is this scene ? The sire shakes his locks grey with age : EDMUND AND HELEN. 107 " My kou'*-'he begins to unfold the sad cause, A hearse moves along with white pluints — He slops — his spouse shrieks — while the sou lurus bis eye, And hifi visage a pale hue assumes. " *Tis she — *tis my Helen |" he frantic exclaims, Their looks and their sorrow conspire Tu show him his fate—** Ah my Helen is gone, ** He sinks in the arms of his sire," He flics from his parents, he seeks the church- yard, His passions in wild tumuli rave ; 168 EDMUND AND HELEN. He reaches the spot, sad and speechless he stands, As the last turf is laid on her grave. Her father amaz'd, hastens towards the youth, And speaks in a tone grave and mild — There, low now she lies ! — Oh, my Edmund, forgive. Soon, soon shall I sleep with my child. The youth returnM home, and his wound bled afresh. But nought could a remedy prove. He sunk — in the arms of his mother espir'd — He rests near the grave of his love. 169 THE PORTRAIT. AN IMITATION. Comb, my pencil, thou nhalt prove, All the charms of her I lore; Canst thou paint, with passion's glow, Her vermil lipe, her neck of snow — On her cheek, and temples strew. The rose's blush, the lily's hue ? Canst thou paint her ringlets straying, And the graces round them playing— 170 THE PORTRAIT. Playing round each smiling charm, Love's companions chaste and warm ? Can thy magic touch pourtray Her beaming eye of azure ray ? Canst thou give her breast to rise With love's soft delicious sighs — Sighs, that modesty respire, "^ ^ >*^. Sighs, that on the lips expire. » Yes, thou canst— she smiles — a flame Darts along my trembling frame : The pencil falls — away vain art — I feel — I feel her image in my heart. 171 ATTACHMENT. See the Bee od rising wing* Learet the hive with bumming measure. Flitting o'er the flowers of spring ; fi«ck it hutet with honied treasure. Thus, whene'er my fancy roves, Through the walks of life or nature. Back it hastes to her it loves. Dwelling on each grace and feature. 172 THE TEAR. 1 SAW the morning's dewy gem - Glistening on the rose's stem. While zephyr came in frolic play. And brush'd the lucid drop away. I saw Love in my Clara's eye, I heard Love in her breathing sigh ; The urchin touch'd her heart with fear. And chas'd along her cheek a tear, Hope saw its course, with playful wile. And whelm'd it in a dimpled smile. 173 THE RECONCILIATION. Adiea ! the sayt, with downcast eye, Adic« ! the nys, aod heaves a sigh - A aifli i*— i« it for me ? Farewell ! fair one, since we must part ; Go, Clara, seek a fonder heart ; 1 sigh — it is for thee. She from me turns with dewy gate, A tear upon her eye>lid plays. Ah! is the tear for me ? 174 THE RECONCILIATION, I dare not kiss that drop away — Adieu !— ah ! no, I cannot say, — Adieu ! fair maid, to thee. She OQ me turns a look so bland, She half extends her willing hand. My Clara ! thou art mine ? She falls within my circling arms — 1 hear — while gazing on her charms. My heart is wholly thine. 17S CLARA'S TOMB. All Natnre rejoices, while ert it declining, But Nature to me is o*er«hadow*d with gloom ; Ah ! eoold my eye dwell on her beaaties corobiaing, Since Clara here rests in the sleep uf the tomb. Ah ! vale once belov'd, and still dear to reflectioo» Here oft have I wander'd, my Clara, with thee ; What joy heav'd my bosom, when warm with affection, She look'd opoa Nature, then smiPd upon me. 176 CLARA'S TOMB. Where'er we waadered her eye fondly beaming, More sweet seem'd the plain, and more vocal the grove, With grace and with beauty all nature seem'd teeming. Ah ! where are my joys— in the grave of my love ? Yes, low lie ray joys, where my Clara reposes. The lovely maid died, and grief sunk in my bre^t ; I look along life, but the prospect discloses Naught dearer to me than the mansions of rest. FINIS. J, Gillcl, Pi inter, Crown-court, Fleet-street, London. /*^^ '