Alfred An Epick Poem. In Twelve Books. By Sir Richard Blackmore |
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| I. |
| II. |
| III. |
| IV. |
| V. |
| VI. |
| VII. |
| VIII. |
| IX. | BOOK IX. |
| X. |
| XI. |
| XII. |
 | Alfred |  |
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BOOK IX.
The ARGUMENT.
The Britons at the Return of Day leave the Wood, and advancing into the Country are seized as Spies by a Troop of the King of Agmat's Guards, who were in Search of Dalcanor, a great Offender fled from Justice. They are sent to Agmat, where the Inhabitants were then celebrating a high Festival in Honour of their God the Sun. They are carried before Albuzar the Governour, and examined, who, and whence they were. They own themselves to be Britons and Christians. The Governour tells them they must, according to an indispensable Law of the Country, pay solemn Worship to their Deity the Sun,
or suffer Death. The Britons refuse the first. Are condemned, and led to Execution. On the Way thither, Guithun, who was an eminent Astronomer, foreknew that a total Eclipse of the Sun would happen at this Time, and, to terrify and dissuade the Agmatians from putting them to Death, he threatens them that their God should immediately be extinguished and blotted out of the Skies. The Eclipse ensued. The People seized with the utmost Consternation, entreat Guithun to restore their Deity. Guithun promises that he should be re-established; which done, the People taking the Britons for Gods descended from Heaven in Humane Shape, were ready to pay divine Honours, and offer Sacrifices to them, which Guithun interposing prevents. The People kill Albuzar, and destroy his Palace. The Britons are carried to Abal the King, who receives them with great Kindness and Respect. The King of Dara hearing that Albuzar was slain, who, tho' an ill Man, had been a successful General, and had brought that Prince under the Agmatian Yoke, takes this Opportunity to rise in Arms and invade Abal's Kingdom; who hearing the News, immediately orders his Army should be assembled. Gives Alfred the chief Command. The Prince overthrows the Darans. Is received with great Applause at Agmat. Abal advanced in Age and grown weary of publick Cares, resigns his Crown and Dignity. The People chuse Alfred to fill his Place. Alfred refuses, and recommends to them Golan, who is unanimously elected King.
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Now did the solar Orb revolving rise
With growing Glory thro' the Saffron Skies;
Alfred and Guithun from the Wood advance
To search th' unpractis'd Country, when by Chance
A well arm'd Squadron by their Monarch sent
Dalcanor's Embarkation to prevent,
A Minister corrupt from Justice fled,
In their Pursuit of this Offender's Head
Observ'd the British Pair, who from the Shore
Wander'd this unknown Region to explore.
As Spies they seiz'd and led them to the Town
Of Agmat first in Empire and Renown.
The People then held to their God the Sun
Their annual Feast, which, when he rose, begun.
Worship divine th' adoring Vot'ries pay,
And solemnize with pompous Rites the Day.
The Domes with Clouds of balmy Incense smoke,
While fatty Vapours from the Entrails broke
Of Victims burning in each sacred Grove,
And Fumes in curling Columns upward strove.
With growing Glory thro' the Saffron Skies;
Alfred and Guithun from the Wood advance
To search th' unpractis'd Country, when by Chance
A well arm'd Squadron by their Monarch sent
Dalcanor's Embarkation to prevent,
A Minister corrupt from Justice fled,
In their Pursuit of this Offender's Head
Observ'd the British Pair, who from the Shore
Wander'd this unknown Region to explore.
As Spies they seiz'd and led them to the Town
Of Agmat first in Empire and Renown.
The People then held to their God the Sun
Their annual Feast, which, when he rose, begun.
Worship divine th' adoring Vot'ries pay,
And solemnize with pompous Rites the Day.
The Domes with Clouds of balmy Incense smoke,
While fatty Vapours from the Entrails broke
Of Victims burning in each sacred Grove,
And Fumes in curling Columns upward strove.
Now were the Britons to Albuzar led,
Th' imperial City's delegated Head,
And the great King's first Officer of State;
He bade them who and whence they were relate.
Th' imperial City's delegated Head,
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He bade them who and whence they were relate.
Alfred reply'd—You see of Albion's Isle
Two Natives shipwreck'd cast on Libya's Soil.
Then are you Christians—said the Pagan Chief.
The Prince return'd—To that divine Belief
We firm adhere—Then said Albuzar, know,
You on this Feast must to the Temple go,
And to our God the Sun due Honour show:
An ancient sacred Law commands that all
Found on this Day within our City's Wall
Must to adore our Deity comply,
And practise our religious Rites, or die.
Two Natives shipwreck'd cast on Libya's Soil.
Then are you Christians—said the Pagan Chief.
The Prince return'd—To that divine Belief
We firm adhere—Then said Albuzar, know,
You on this Feast must to the Temple go,
And to our God the Sun due Honour show:
An ancient sacred Law commands that all
Found on this Day within our City's Wall
Must to adore our Deity comply,
And practise our religious Rites, or die.
Then Alfred—Heav'n indulgent is and good,
And takes Delight in Mercy, not in Blood:
This Pow'r supreme, that sits enthron'd above
A Mind benevolent, a God of Love,
Can no religious Cruelty approve.
Zealots to him detested Worship pay
Who, to instruct the Mind, the Body slay.
Schemes of Belief, that tend not to create
Intestine Ferments and embroil the State,
Should from coercive penal Laws be freed,
Doctrines from Heav'n no earthly Terrours need.
And takes Delight in Mercy, not in Blood:
This Pow'r supreme, that sits enthron'd above
A Mind benevolent, a God of Love,
Can no religious Cruelty approve.
Zealots to him detested Worship pay
Who, to instruct the Mind, the Body slay.
Schemes of Belief, that tend not to create
Intestine Ferments and embroil the State,
Should from coercive penal Laws be freed,
Doctrines from Heav'n no earthly Terrours need.
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Can Creeds be fram'd by Lictors? to the Heart
Can tort'ring Scourges, Racks, and Wheels, impart
Passions devout and pure? can Light divine
Emerge from Dungeons or the Delver's Mine?
The greatest Monarchs can't extend, by Right,
Beyond their Civil Sphere their civil Might.
Hence none condemn'd should at your Altars bleed
For Disagreement with the publick Creed:
Oh! let not Strangers shipwreck'd on your Strand
Perish in this inhospitable Land;
Let not Agmatian Lords relentless grow,
And, than the Storms we 'scap'd, less Mercy show.
Can tort'ring Scourges, Racks, and Wheels, impart
Passions devout and pure? can Light divine
Emerge from Dungeons or the Delver's Mine?
The greatest Monarchs can't extend, by Right,
Beyond their Civil Sphere their civil Might.
Hence none condemn'd should at your Altars bleed
For Disagreement with the publick Creed:
Oh! let not Strangers shipwreck'd on your Strand
Perish in this inhospitable Land;
Let not Agmatian Lords relentless grow,
And, than the Storms we 'scap'd, less Mercy show.
Your God, the Sun, to Good and Bad is kind,
Nor is his Bounty to a Sect confin'd,
But his revivng Heat and Lustre flow
Without Distinction on the Realms below.
Hence we your Favour can't in vain implore,
If, of th' illustrious Orb that you adore,
You æmulous on all impartial shine,
And spread around Benevolence divine.
Nor is his Bounty to a Sect confin'd,
But his revivng Heat and Lustre flow
Without Distinction on the Realms below.
Hence we your Favour can't in vain implore,
If, of th' illustrious Orb that you adore,
You æmulous on all impartial shine,
And spread around Benevolence divine.
He ceas'd—Albuzar wrathful thus reply'd;
Are then our God, our Laws, and Pow'r defy'd?
Your Words are vain, without prolong'd Debate
Kneel at our Altars, or expect your Fate.
Are then our God, our Laws, and Pow'r defy'd?
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Kneel at our Altars, or expect your Fate.
Then Alfred—Idol-Worship we refuse,
Fix'd in our Faith, and Death shall rather chuse
Than on his Wrath by Disobedience run
Who reer'd the World, and made your God, the Sun,
Which shines dependent on that Source of Light,
And climbs the Skies by delegated Might.
This GOD unseen, whose Hands alone sustain
What first he made, the Heav'ns, and Earth, and Main,
Gave to the solar Orb his motive Force,
And settled Orders that direct his Course:
This God we honour and his Will obey,
But to his Creatures no Devotion pay.
Fix'd in our Faith, and Death shall rather chuse
Than on his Wrath by Disobedience run
Who reer'd the World, and made your God, the Sun,
Which shines dependent on that Source of Light,
And climbs the Skies by delegated Might.
This GOD unseen, whose Hands alone sustain
What first he made, the Heav'ns, and Earth, and Main,
Gave to the solar Orb his motive Force,
And settled Orders that direct his Course:
This God we honour and his Will obey,
But to his Creatures no Devotion pay.
He ceas'd—And, when incens'd Albuzar saw
The Christians in Contempt of Agmat's Law
Resolv'd the publick Worship to defy,
Refuse Obedience and accept to die,
He gave to waiting Officers Command
That both should suffer by the Headsman's Hand.
Then cruel Lictors to a neighb'ring Plain,
Where Criminals expir'd in tort'ring Pain,
Convey the Britons, while a shouting Throng
To see the bloody Action march along.
The Christians in Contempt of Agmat's Law
Resolv'd the publick Worship to defy,
Refuse Obedience and accept to die,
He gave to waiting Officers Command
That both should suffer by the Headsman's Hand.
Then cruel Lictors to a neighb'ring Plain,
Where Criminals expir'd in tort'ring Pain,
Convey the Britons, while a shouting Throng
To see the bloody Action march along.
300
Guithun, who, verst in Astronomick Art
And own'd superiour to the greatest Part
Of Sages, knew that at th' approaching Noon
In Nature's Course the interceding Moon
Would wholly interrupt the solar Ray,
And with surprising Gloom efface the Day,
Resolv'd in this important Hour to use
His Astrologick Præscience to amuse
Th' unletter'd Nation, and dispose their Mind
Not to inflict the cruel Stroke design'd.
Then, beck'ning with his Hand, he cry'd aloud,
And earnest thus bespoke th' attentive Croud;
To shed our Blood beware how you proceed,
See, to deter you from this heinous Deed,
Heav'n will o'erspread the Land with sudden Night,
Blot out your Sun, and of his chearing Light
Defraud your Tribes, when you with fruitless Cries
And unprevaling Pray'r shall fill the Skies.
See and repent, the awful Scene's begun,
Lift up your Eyes, behold the sick'ning Sun
Shines dimly, soon you'll find his splendid Train
Extinguish'd, and will seek the Day in vain.
Your God, prodigious Sight! At Noon will set,
And mask his Visage with a Veil of Jet;
While you astonish'd will bewilder'd stray,
And in meridian Darkness lose your Way.
And own'd superiour to the greatest Part
Of Sages, knew that at th' approaching Noon
In Nature's Course the interceding Moon
Would wholly interrupt the solar Ray,
And with surprising Gloom efface the Day,
Resolv'd in this important Hour to use
His Astrologick Præscience to amuse
Th' unletter'd Nation, and dispose their Mind
Not to inflict the cruel Stroke design'd.
Then, beck'ning with his Hand, he cry'd aloud,
And earnest thus bespoke th' attentive Croud;
To shed our Blood beware how you proceed,
See, to deter you from this heinous Deed,
Heav'n will o'erspread the Land with sudden Night,
Blot out your Sun, and of his chearing Light
Defraud your Tribes, when you with fruitless Cries
And unprevaling Pray'r shall fill the Skies.
See and repent, the awful Scene's begun,
Lift up your Eyes, behold the sick'ning Sun
Shines dimly, soon you'll find his splendid Train
Extinguish'd, and will seek the Day in vain.
Your God, prodigious Sight! At Noon will set,
And mask his Visage with a Veil of Jet;
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And in meridian Darkness lose your Way.
Now did the intervening Moon apace
Advancing in her heav'nly Road efface
The Source of Light, and by Degrees at last
His whole refulgent Body overcast;
And while his Beams began to disappear,
The People shook at once with Cold and Fear;
For, introduc'd by dark unnat'ral Shades,
A sudden Winter's Force the Air invades.
Uncherish'd now by solar Light and Heat
Their Hearts with Toil their vital Task repeat;
While shiv'ring Chillness seizes every Vein,
Slackens their Sinews and disturbs their Brain,
Which deep Impressions left of various Kind,
That pain the Body or afflict the Mind.
Advancing in her heav'nly Road efface
The Source of Light, and by Degrees at last
His whole refulgent Body overcast;
And while his Beams began to disappear,
The People shook at once with Cold and Fear;
For, introduc'd by dark unnat'ral Shades,
A sudden Winter's Force the Air invades.
Uncherish'd now by solar Light and Heat
Their Hearts with Toil their vital Task repeat;
While shiv'ring Chillness seizes every Vein,
Slackens their Sinews and disturbs their Brain,
Which deep Impressions left of various Kind,
That pain the Body or afflict the Mind.
Reveal'd by Darkness Stars amaz'd the Sight,
And thro' surprizing Gloom diffuse surprizing Light:
The radiant Leaders of the Ev'n and Morn,
Beheld at once, the wond'ring Heav'ns adorn:
Nor could the Birds deluded overcome
Their sudden Fear and Consternation, some
In various Errour this and that Way flew,
Nor what Abodes to seek bewilder'd knew;
While some to shady Coverts wing'd their Flight
In their known Roosts to pass expected Night.
Flocks in the dark from Shepherds went astray,
Who the nocturnal Shade at middle Day
Astonish'd view'd, mean Time the plowing Swains,
The Ox unyoak'd, in Terrour left the Plains.
The Lyon too, deceiv'd, his Time mistook,
Rous'd, yawn'd, & stretch'd, & his close Den forsook,
Then roaring thro' the Forrest made his Way,
And, tho' so lately fed, pursu'd his Prey.
And thro' surprizing Gloom diffuse surprizing Light:
The radiant Leaders of the Ev'n and Morn,
Beheld at once, the wond'ring Heav'ns adorn:
Nor could the Birds deluded overcome
Their sudden Fear and Consternation, some
In various Errour this and that Way flew,
Nor what Abodes to seek bewilder'd knew;
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In their known Roosts to pass expected Night.
Flocks in the dark from Shepherds went astray,
Who the nocturnal Shade at middle Day
Astonish'd view'd, mean Time the plowing Swains,
The Ox unyoak'd, in Terrour left the Plains.
The Lyon too, deceiv'd, his Time mistook,
Rous'd, yawn'd, & stretch'd, & his close Den forsook,
Then roaring thro' the Forrest made his Way,
And, tho' so lately fed, pursu'd his Prey.
The Pagan Nation, at this dismal Sight
In Horrour and ineffable Affright,
Fearing the Sun was blotted from the Skies,
And would no more to bless their Kingdom rise,
With howling Cries the British Sage implor'd
That by his Aid their God might be restor'd.
In Horrour and ineffable Affright,
Fearing the Sun was blotted from the Skies,
And would no more to bless their Kingdom rise,
With howling Cries the British Sage implor'd
That by his Aid their God might be restor'd.
Guithun aloud reply'd—Soon you shall find
The Sun rekindled will again be kind.
And as he said—The Moon, some Moments past,
Whose Shade the solar Orb had overcast,
Advancing on her known progressive Task,
From his bright Face in Part remov'd the Mask:
Then, wond'rous to behold! a sudden Blaze
Of heav'nly Glory and oppressive Rays,
Unsufferable Burst of gushing Light,
Sprung from the Heav'ns and pain'd the dazled Sight:
Now by Degrees the Sun his Orb reveal'd,
Which by Degrees the Moon before conceal'd.
At this surprizing Scene the gather'd Croud
In Songs and Dances, Acclamations loud
And Shouts of Triumph, rapt'rous Joy express
To see the Sun his Empire repossess.
The Sun rekindled will again be kind.
And as he said—The Moon, some Moments past,
Whose Shade the solar Orb had overcast,
Advancing on her known progressive Task,
From his bright Face in Part remov'd the Mask:
Then, wond'rous to behold! a sudden Blaze
Of heav'nly Glory and oppressive Rays,
303
Sprung from the Heav'ns and pain'd the dazled Sight:
Now by Degrees the Sun his Orb reveal'd,
Which by Degrees the Moon before conceal'd.
At this surprizing Scene the gather'd Croud
In Songs and Dances, Acclamations loud
And Shouts of Triumph, rapt'rous Joy express
To see the Sun his Empire repossess.
Then all exclaim'd—These are not Men, but Gods
Newly descended from their bless'd Abodes
In humane Form disguis'd; then let us shew
Honours divine to these high Beings due.
Newly descended from their bless'd Abodes
In humane Form disguis'd; then let us shew
Honours divine to these high Beings due.
And first the priestly Order richly dress'd
Their Zeal to honour Albion's Sons express'd.
Some brought sleek Bullocks for the Altar fed
With flow'ry Garlands crown'd, some eager led
In solemn Pomp devoted harmless Lambs,
While others forward shov'd their bleating Dams,
Which they as sacred Victims meant to slay
And publick Worship to the Strangers pay.
Inconstant Vulgar, who as Gods adore
The Men condemn'd to Torments just before!
Their Zeal to honour Albion's Sons express'd.
Some brought sleek Bullocks for the Altar fed
With flow'ry Garlands crown'd, some eager led
In solemn Pomp devoted harmless Lambs,
While others forward shov'd their bleating Dams,
Which they as sacred Victims meant to slay
And publick Worship to the Strangers pay.
Inconstant Vulgar, who as Gods adore
The Men condemn'd to Torments just before!
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Guithun, perceiving this, amidst the Croud
Impetuous rush'd and thus exclaim'd aloud;
Deluded Men, your rash Attempt forbear,
Dismiss the Pomp, and undue Honours spare.
We are not Beings of celestial Race,
But you as Brother-Mortals we embrace.
Believe me, we are Flesh and Blood like you,
And eat and drink our Vigour to renew.
Common to you we under Suff'rings groan,
And in our Breasts feel Passions, like your own.
He said—Yet scarcely could his Zeal prevent
Unhallow'd Rites, and change the Priests Intent.
Impetuous rush'd and thus exclaim'd aloud;
Deluded Men, your rash Attempt forbear,
Dismiss the Pomp, and undue Honours spare.
We are not Beings of celestial Race,
But you as Brother-Mortals we embrace.
Believe me, we are Flesh and Blood like you,
And eat and drink our Vigour to renew.
Common to you we under Suff'rings groan,
And in our Breasts feel Passions, like your own.
He said—Yet scarcely could his Zeal prevent
Unhallow'd Rites, and change the Priests Intent.
The Multitude incens'd with Fury flew
To his high Palace and Albuzar slew
With all his hapless Offspring, then defac'd
His curious Gardens, Walks, and Groves, and raz'd
His proud aspiring Structure, to asswage
At the fierce Ruler's Cost vindictive Rage,
Who by his rash Decree condemn'd to die
Two judg'd immortal Natives of the Sky:
While others with unusual Honours bring
The British Pair to Abal Agmat's King,
And told him these Commands on Nature lay,
That they recall'd the Sun's departed Ray,
Succour'd their God, and re-establish'd Day.
Th' indulgent Monarch clasp'd them to his Breast,
And of a grateful Mind great Marks exprest.
To his high Palace and Albuzar slew
With all his hapless Offspring, then defac'd
His curious Gardens, Walks, and Groves, and raz'd
His proud aspiring Structure, to asswage
At the fierce Ruler's Cost vindictive Rage,
Who by his rash Decree condemn'd to die
Two judg'd immortal Natives of the Sky:
While others with unusual Honours bring
The British Pair to Abal Agmat's King,
And told him these Commands on Nature lay,
That they recall'd the Sun's departed Ray,
Succour'd their God, and re-establish'd Day.
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And of a grateful Mind great Marks exprest.
Abal, a Sov'reign generous, wise, sedate,
Long rul'd in War and Peace the happy State;
But when in Years advanc'd, to Ease inclin'd,
He to Albuzar publick Cares resign'd,
Who with despotick Will the Kingdom sway'd,
While his Commands the Camp and Court obey'd:
But ill the Fav'rite royal Goodness us'd,
Betray'd his Trust and his high Pow'r abus'd,
While he the Realm by cruel Ways distress'd,
Plunder'd the Wealthy and the Poor oppress'd:
Thus he excited universal Hate,
And by enormous Guilt brought on his Fate.
Th' indulgent King receiv'd in princely Sort
The British Heroe at his splendid Court,
Whose princely Virtues there to all appear
So bright, so great, so from Suspicion clear,
That soon he grew to Abal's Servants dear.
Long rul'd in War and Peace the happy State;
But when in Years advanc'd, to Ease inclin'd,
He to Albuzar publick Cares resign'd,
Who with despotick Will the Kingdom sway'd,
While his Commands the Camp and Court obey'd:
But ill the Fav'rite royal Goodness us'd,
Betray'd his Trust and his high Pow'r abus'd,
While he the Realm by cruel Ways distress'd,
Plunder'd the Wealthy and the Poor oppress'd:
Thus he excited universal Hate,
And by enormous Guilt brought on his Fate.
Th' indulgent King receiv'd in princely Sort
The British Heroe at his splendid Court,
Whose princely Virtues there to all appear
So bright, so great, so from Suspicion clear,
That soon he grew to Abal's Servants dear.
One Night, while Sleep his downy Wings had spread
O'er Alfred's Eyes then resting on his Bed,
Bright Amel swift as Heav'n's exploded Flame
Down the steep Vacant to the Briton came,
And in a Vision to the Heroe said,
Empow'r'd by high Commission I have sped
My Way to Abal's Court, to let you know,
That, by this Prince to quell a faithless Foe
Who'll soon invade his Kingdom, when you 're pray'd
With earnest Speech in Arms to give him Aid,
You to the King should unreluctant yield,
And lead his muster'd Warriours to the Field.
This will become a great Heroick Mind,
You'll hence without Remorse true Pleasure find,
And by illustrious Deeds on Agmat's Plains
Efface in Part your late Sicilian Stains.
O'er Alfred's Eyes then resting on his Bed,
Bright Amel swift as Heav'n's exploded Flame
Down the steep Vacant to the Briton came,
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Empow'r'd by high Commission I have sped
My Way to Abal's Court, to let you know,
That, by this Prince to quell a faithless Foe
Who'll soon invade his Kingdom, when you 're pray'd
With earnest Speech in Arms to give him Aid,
You to the King should unreluctant yield,
And lead his muster'd Warriours to the Field.
This will become a great Heroick Mind,
You'll hence without Remorse true Pleasure find,
And by illustrious Deeds on Agmat's Plains
Efface in Part your late Sicilian Stains.
This said, he vanish'd; and without Delay
Alfred resolv'd Heav'n's Orders to obey.
Then the next Evening, while the royal Pair
Travers'd the Walks to breathe refreshing Air,
Two Officers of Rank superiour bring,
Panting with Haste, bad Tidings to the King,
That with a potent Army Dara's Lord
The Kingdom had invaded, and with Sword
And Fire the Country and the Towns laid waste;
That he the Streights of Abela had past,
And, if not soon oppos'd, might Orban gain,
And thence advance direct to Agmat's Plain.
Present of Mind the Monarch gave Command
That his great Chiefs, the Daran to withstand,
With utmost Speed their Forces should unite,
And march th' Invader to engage in Fight.
He then the Briton courteous thus bespoke;
The Daran, whom no Reasons just provoke,
Has solemn Vows and Leagues of Friendship broke.
War not denounc'd the faithless Prince assail'd
Our Towns ill-mann'd, and has so far prevail'd
By unexpected ignominious Arms,
That Agmat fears th' Aggressor's proud Alarms.
My Chiefs, their Troops assembled, will attack
Th' insulting Foe to drive the Tempest back;
But, Alfred, you, importunate I ask,
Will head the gather'd Army, 'tis a Task
Worthy the British Heroe's generous Hand
To quell proud Might, and guard an injur'd Land.
Then lead my Host to glorious Labour, thus
Renown will you attend, and Safety us.
Alfred, whose Intercession could retrieve
Th' extinguish'd Sun, may troubled States relieve
With greater Ease; on you I firm rely,
On you, to whom the Gods no Aid deny.
Alfred resolv'd Heav'n's Orders to obey.
Then the next Evening, while the royal Pair
Travers'd the Walks to breathe refreshing Air,
Two Officers of Rank superiour bring,
Panting with Haste, bad Tidings to the King,
That with a potent Army Dara's Lord
The Kingdom had invaded, and with Sword
And Fire the Country and the Towns laid waste;
That he the Streights of Abela had past,
And, if not soon oppos'd, might Orban gain,
And thence advance direct to Agmat's Plain.
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That his great Chiefs, the Daran to withstand,
With utmost Speed their Forces should unite,
And march th' Invader to engage in Fight.
He then the Briton courteous thus bespoke;
The Daran, whom no Reasons just provoke,
Has solemn Vows and Leagues of Friendship broke.
War not denounc'd the faithless Prince assail'd
Our Towns ill-mann'd, and has so far prevail'd
By unexpected ignominious Arms,
That Agmat fears th' Aggressor's proud Alarms.
My Chiefs, their Troops assembled, will attack
Th' insulting Foe to drive the Tempest back;
But, Alfred, you, importunate I ask,
Will head the gather'd Army, 'tis a Task
Worthy the British Heroe's generous Hand
To quell proud Might, and guard an injur'd Land.
Then lead my Host to glorious Labour, thus
Renown will you attend, and Safety us.
Alfred, whose Intercession could retrieve
Th' extinguish'd Sun, may troubled States relieve
With greater Ease; on you I firm rely,
On you, to whom the Gods no Aid deny.
Alfred, to pay Obedience fully bent
To the Command by the bright Seraph sent,
Comply'd, and took at Dawn of Light his Way
To Goreb, where collected Bodies lay
Of Abal's Forces, and was quickly join'd
By neighb'ring Troops to swell the Host design'd.
The Army thus encreas'd puissant grows,
When Alfred march'd to meet th' advancing Foes,
And with such Ardour, such heroick Airs,
And Spirit undismay'd for Fight prepares,
That all his Looks, and Mien, and Words, express
Th' auspicious Tokens that presage Success.
The Host observ'd him with consummate Joy,
Sure that his Aid would the proud Hopes destroy
Of Dara's Monarch, and support their State
Against the Terrours of impending Fate.
To the Command by the bright Seraph sent,
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To Goreb, where collected Bodies lay
Of Abal's Forces, and was quickly join'd
By neighb'ring Troops to swell the Host design'd.
The Army thus encreas'd puissant grows,
When Alfred march'd to meet th' advancing Foes,
And with such Ardour, such heroick Airs,
And Spirit undismay'd for Fight prepares,
That all his Looks, and Mien, and Words, express
Th' auspicious Tokens that presage Success.
The Host observ'd him with consummate Joy,
Sure that his Aid would the proud Hopes destroy
Of Dara's Monarch, and support their State
Against the Terrours of impending Fate.
And now the Daran Army march'd in Sight,
But Action was deferr'd by growing Night.
In his Pavilion Alfred watchful lay,
And search'd the Heav'ns with eager Eyes for Day.
But Action was deferr'd by growing Night.
In his Pavilion Alfred watchful lay,
And search'd the Heav'ns with eager Eyes for Day.
At length the Morning Ray began to try
Its tender Wings, and thro' th' Abyss of Sky
Flew smiling down; the British Heroe rose
Pleas'd, his Brigades for Combate to dispose.
Now clad in polish'd Armour, glorious Sight!
That pain'd Spectators with reflected Light,
He mounted swift his Mauritanian Steed,
Fam'd for his Beauty, Courage, Strength and Speed,
The most renown'd of Abal's noble Breed.
With his strong Hand he grasp'd his trembling Lance,
Look'd fearless round, and bade his Troops advance.
His bounding Courser scornful of the Rein
Carried the martial Tempest o'er the Plain
With graceful Pride, the Rider with an Air
And dauntless Aspect, such as Heroes wear
And such as inbred Fire and Valour shew,
Impatient of Delay to Battle flew.
Its tender Wings, and thro' th' Abyss of Sky
Flew smiling down; the British Heroe rose
Pleas'd, his Brigades for Combate to dispose.
Now clad in polish'd Armour, glorious Sight!
That pain'd Spectators with reflected Light,
309
Fam'd for his Beauty, Courage, Strength and Speed,
The most renown'd of Abal's noble Breed.
With his strong Hand he grasp'd his trembling Lance,
Look'd fearless round, and bade his Troops advance.
His bounding Courser scornful of the Rein
Carried the martial Tempest o'er the Plain
With graceful Pride, the Rider with an Air
And dauntless Aspect, such as Heroes wear
And such as inbred Fire and Valour shew,
Impatient of Delay to Battle flew.
The Daran at his mighty Army's Head,
Bold and with sanguine Hopes of Conquest fed,
Advancing thro' the Pass of Cela press'd,
And by Degrees his Van the Vale possess'd.
Soon was his Host extended wide and far,
And cover'd all the Fields with spreading War.
So when a Cloud, at first but small, in Air
Is seen near Western India's Climates, where
The Æquinoctial Girdle does embrace
The Earth's round Globe, soon all th' Etherial Space
Black congregated Vapours overspread,
Whence adverse Storms and Hurricanes inbred
Are ready to explode their hostile Rage,
And in aerial Fight their Strength engage.
Bold and with sanguine Hopes of Conquest fed,
Advancing thro' the Pass of Cela press'd,
And by Degrees his Van the Vale possess'd.
Soon was his Host extended wide and far,
And cover'd all the Fields with spreading War.
So when a Cloud, at first but small, in Air
Is seen near Western India's Climates, where
The Æquinoctial Girdle does embrace
The Earth's round Globe, soon all th' Etherial Space
Black congregated Vapours overspread,
Whence adverse Storms and Hurricanes inbred
Are ready to explode their hostile Rage,
And in aerial Fight their Strength engage.
310
Before the Briton would the Foe assault,
Tho' near advanc'd, he bade his Squadrons halt;
Then holding up on high a Parchment roll'd
And turning to his Troops he cry'd, Behold
The friendly League between the Monarchs sign'd
And fix'd by sacred Oaths; no Wit can find
Words of more Force, that can two Princes bind,
Your Sov'reign from his Archieves gave in Trust
To me this Volume, when his Orders first
Alfred receiv'd, to which I now am just.
With worthy Indignation then to fire
Your Breasts and double Courage to inspire
The Treaty hear—. A Herald now aloud
Read the Diploma to the martial Croud
That list'ning stood—The Chief, that Office done,
Thus to the Cohorts pour'd around begun.
Tho' near advanc'd, he bade his Squadrons halt;
Then holding up on high a Parchment roll'd
And turning to his Troops he cry'd, Behold
The friendly League between the Monarchs sign'd
And fix'd by sacred Oaths; no Wit can find
Words of more Force, that can two Princes bind,
Your Sov'reign from his Archieves gave in Trust
To me this Volume, when his Orders first
Alfred receiv'd, to which I now am just.
With worthy Indignation then to fire
Your Breasts and double Courage to inspire
The Treaty hear—. A Herald now aloud
Read the Diploma to the martial Croud
That list'ning stood—The Chief, that Office done,
Thus to the Cohorts pour'd around begun.
Warriours, you see the Darian King defies
Justice divine, and mocks religious Tyes;
'Tis clear he impious Principles allows,
Affronts his God and violates his Vows;
This has the Pow'r that rules the World incens'd,
Who ne'er with such enormous Guilt dispens'd:
Perfidious Princes War not only wage
With injur'd Realms on Earth, but Heav'n engage,
Whose fatal Vengeance Monarchs will pursue
Not to their Oaths nor solemn Promise true.
Confed'rate Pow'rs from the bright Host above
That Fraud abhor and your just Cause approve,
Sent by the Lord of Armies high Command,
Grasping immortal Sabres in their Hand,
Hover in Air unseen to charge the Foe,
And will their Hate of Treaty-breakers show.
Trust to your Cause, and on their Guilt depend;
The Realm their Arms invade, their Crimes defend:
Undaunted meet them, and in Battle brave
Assert your Monarch, and your Country save.
Justice divine, and mocks religious Tyes;
'Tis clear he impious Principles allows,
Affronts his God and violates his Vows;
This has the Pow'r that rules the World incens'd,
Who ne'er with such enormous Guilt dispens'd:
Perfidious Princes War not only wage
With injur'd Realms on Earth, but Heav'n engage,
311
Not to their Oaths nor solemn Promise true.
Confed'rate Pow'rs from the bright Host above
That Fraud abhor and your just Cause approve,
Sent by the Lord of Armies high Command,
Grasping immortal Sabres in their Hand,
Hover in Air unseen to charge the Foe,
And will their Hate of Treaty-breakers show.
Trust to your Cause, and on their Guilt depend;
The Realm their Arms invade, their Crimes defend:
Undaunted meet them, and in Battle brave
Assert your Monarch, and your Country save.
Devoutly then the Heroe rais'd his Eyes,
And, holding up the Treaty to the Skies,
He said—Great Pow'r, who dost the Just protect,
And perjur'd Nations in thy Wrath correct,
To vindicate thy Laws, and States affright
From breaking Leagues and violating Right,
Punish this Day by some Agmatian Sword
This proud Invader, Dara's faithless Lord.
And, holding up the Treaty to the Skies,
He said—Great Pow'r, who dost the Just protect,
And perjur'd Nations in thy Wrath correct,
To vindicate thy Laws, and States affright
From breaking Leagues and violating Right,
Punish this Day by some Agmatian Sword
This proud Invader, Dara's faithless Lord.
That said—He sprung, and with a gen'rous Thirst
Of Glory plung'd amidst the Ranks, and first
Noble Borello from fair Arva's Plains
Felt the bright Javelin in his wounded Veins.
Then mighty Dravan with enormous Rage
Rush'd thro' the Field the Heroe to engage:
The Briton heard him threat'ning from afar,
And fir'd with Fury coveted the War:
Then to th' advancing Chief intrepid flew,
And by his matchless Arms the Champion slew.
So a young Lyon, that in prosp'rous Fight
His Courage oft has shown and prov'd his Might,
If, now convinc'd of his superiour Force,
He spies a vig'rous Bull that bellowing hoarse
And proudly nodding thro' the flow'ry Meads
His fair horn'd Troop with Pace majestick leads,
Lashing his Sides he roars, he licks his Jaws,
And oft to feel his Strength strikes out his Paws;
Then rushing on with Terrour in his Eyes,
Rapid to tear his Foe in Combate flies.
Of Glory plung'd amidst the Ranks, and first
Noble Borello from fair Arva's Plains
Felt the bright Javelin in his wounded Veins.
312
Rush'd thro' the Field the Heroe to engage:
The Briton heard him threat'ning from afar,
And fir'd with Fury coveted the War:
Then to th' advancing Chief intrepid flew,
And by his matchless Arms the Champion slew.
So a young Lyon, that in prosp'rous Fight
His Courage oft has shown and prov'd his Might,
If, now convinc'd of his superiour Force,
He spies a vig'rous Bull that bellowing hoarse
And proudly nodding thro' the flow'ry Meads
His fair horn'd Troop with Pace majestick leads,
Lashing his Sides he roars, he licks his Jaws,
And oft to feel his Strength strikes out his Paws;
Then rushing on with Terrour in his Eyes,
Rapid to tear his Foe in Combate flies.
Alfred his Weapon next at Boran threw,
Which struck the valiant Chief, and, passing thro'
His Bosom, enter'd deep his bleeding Heart
That trembling felt low ebbing Life depart:
The Warriour fell and in Convulsions lay
Striving with earnest Eyes to catch the Day.
Which struck the valiant Chief, and, passing thro'
His Bosom, enter'd deep his bleeding Heart
That trembling felt low ebbing Life depart:
The Warriour fell and in Convulsions lay
Striving with earnest Eyes to catch the Day.
His Fauchion next great Taracol assail'd,
Whose Sword o'er mighty Heroe's had prevail'd;
The Weapon sever'd from the Neck the Head,
This gasping bounded, while that jetting bled
At all the open'd Veins, and drench'd the Ground
With reeking Streams of Purple pour'd around.
Whose Sword o'er mighty Heroe's had prevail'd;
313
This gasping bounded, while that jetting bled
At all the open'd Veins, and drench'd the Ground
With reeking Streams of Purple pour'd around.
When Atrofan a Chief of great Renown,
By his high Birth of Kindred to the Crown,
Seeing the Prince with such Success advance,
Sprung forward to engage him with his Lance,
Which with prodigious Strength and Fury hurl'd
Had sent immediate to another World
A vulgar Warriour, but in Alfred's Shield
The Weapon stuck; he to assure the Field
To his undauuted Foe with Vigour flew,
And at a Blow cut Head and Head-piece through:
He fell, and shook the Ground, a dreadful Cry
Rung thro' the Daran Host and reach'd the Sky.
Then thro' opposing Files the Briton broke,
And on the right and left at every Stroke
Kill'd or dismember'd Heroes, till the Slain
With ghastly Heaps deform'd the reeking Plain.
By his high Birth of Kindred to the Crown,
Seeing the Prince with such Success advance,
Sprung forward to engage him with his Lance,
Which with prodigious Strength and Fury hurl'd
Had sent immediate to another World
A vulgar Warriour, but in Alfred's Shield
The Weapon stuck; he to assure the Field
To his undauuted Foe with Vigour flew,
And at a Blow cut Head and Head-piece through:
He fell, and shook the Ground, a dreadful Cry
Rung thro' the Daran Host and reach'd the Sky.
Then thro' opposing Files the Briton broke,
And on the right and left at every Stroke
Kill'd or dismember'd Heroes, till the Slain
With ghastly Heaps deform'd the reeking Plain.
Della mean Time, who martial Honour sought,
Brave but with unsuccessful Valour fought;
For, by the Daran's thick Brigades opprest
And compass'd round, the Leader in his Breast
Receiv'd a mortal Thrust, the glitt'ring Spear,
Its Point distain'd, did thro' the Back appear.
Thus fell the wise and great Agmatian Chief,
And thro' the Host mov'd universal Grief.
The Troops by this intrepid Warriour led,
Desponding when they saw their General dead,
By greater Numbers press'd began to yield
The Battle, and forsake th' unequal Field.
Brave but with unsuccessful Valour fought;
For, by the Daran's thick Brigades opprest
And compass'd round, the Leader in his Breast
314
Its Point distain'd, did thro' the Back appear.
Thus fell the wise and great Agmatian Chief,
And thro' the Host mov'd universal Grief.
The Troops by this intrepid Warriour led,
Desponding when they saw their General dead,
By greater Numbers press'd began to yield
The Battle, and forsake th' unequal Field.
Soon as Britannia's conquering Heroe found
That Della's strong Battallions left their Ground,
To stop their Flight he 'midst the Cohorts flew,
And from his foaming Courser eager threw
Himself upon his Feet, and cry'd aloud
With moving Accents to the daunted Croud,
Courage, brave Warriours, tho' your Leader's slain,
Renew the Combate and your Ground regain:
Your wonted Valour now intrepid show,
And with your Arms chastize a perjur'd Foe:
You for your Country now in Arms appear,
Your King, your Kindred, Friends, and all Things dear:
Shall these fair Towns be lost? these fertile Plains?
And servile will you wear th' Invader's Chains?
Say, has th' extinguish'd Sun reviv'd his Light
To see your Troops by ignominious Flight
Decline the Combate, leave in Fear the Field,
And to a faithless Prince your Nation yield?
Forbid it Heav'n, then follow me to Fame,
Renown and Safety be your double Aim.
That Della's strong Battallions left their Ground,
To stop their Flight he 'midst the Cohorts flew,
And from his foaming Courser eager threw
Himself upon his Feet, and cry'd aloud
With moving Accents to the daunted Croud,
Courage, brave Warriours, tho' your Leader's slain,
Renew the Combate and your Ground regain:
Your wonted Valour now intrepid show,
And with your Arms chastize a perjur'd Foe:
You for your Country now in Arms appear,
Your King, your Kindred, Friends, and all Things dear:
Shall these fair Towns be lost? these fertile Plains?
And servile will you wear th' Invader's Chains?
Say, has th' extinguish'd Sun reviv'd his Light
To see your Troops by ignominious Flight
315
And to a faithless Prince your Nation yield?
Forbid it Heav'n, then follow me to Fame,
Renown and Safety be your double Aim.
Then to the Charge the valiant Heroe sprung,
And the first Weapon, which he furious flung,
Slew Jared fighting at his Squadron's Head,
In courtly Arts and military bred.
And the first Weapon, which he furious flung,
Slew Jared fighting at his Squadron's Head,
In courtly Arts and military bred.
Next he at Adull cast his pointed Spear;
It pierc'd his Head and pass'd from Ear to Ear:
His Vigour sinking by the dreadful Wound
The Heroe fell, and as he struck the Ground
His Arms and Armour clank'd, his Limbs grew cold,
And Life forsook th' inhospitable Mould.
It pierc'd his Head and pass'd from Ear to Ear:
His Vigour sinking by the dreadful Wound
The Heroe fell, and as he struck the Ground
His Arms and Armour clank'd, his Limbs grew cold,
And Life forsook th' inhospitable Mould.
Next his bright Javelin did at Salan fly,
And enter'd deep the Warriour's brawny Thigh,
Splinter'd th' opposing Bone, and with its Point
Made its swift Passage thro' the yielding Joint:
His Friends rush'd in, and on an ample Shield
Bore off the wounded Heroe from the Field.
And enter'd deep the Warriour's brawny Thigh,
Splinter'd th' opposing Bone, and with its Point
Made its swift Passage thro' the yielding Joint:
His Friends rush'd in, and on an ample Shield
Bore off the wounded Heroe from the Field.
316
Golan elsewhere, a brave Agmatian Lord,
Amidst the Cohorts his destructive Sword
Employ'd at vast Expence of hostile Blood:
Phæda, who came from Gira's noble Flood,
Oppos'd his Arms, but with unequal Force
Strove to arrest the valiant Champion's Course;
Who gath'ring up his Vigour cast his Dart
With mighty Strength, and pierc'd the Daran's Heart.
Bold Capi ne'er of threat'ning Death afraid
With hasty Strides rush'd in to bring him Aid,
But soon th' Agmatian Spear transfixt his Chest,
The Heroe fell with endless Night opprest.
Amidst the Cohorts his destructive Sword
Employ'd at vast Expence of hostile Blood:
Phæda, who came from Gira's noble Flood,
Oppos'd his Arms, but with unequal Force
Strove to arrest the valiant Champion's Course;
Who gath'ring up his Vigour cast his Dart
With mighty Strength, and pierc'd the Daran's Heart.
Bold Capi ne'er of threat'ning Death afraid
With hasty Strides rush'd in to bring him Aid,
But soon th' Agmatian Spear transfixt his Chest,
The Heroe fell with endless Night opprest.
Next with resistless Arms the Warriour kills
Great Molpo from the high Atlantick Hills,
Whose lofty Ridges far thro' Libya run
And with unmelted Snows upbraid the feeble Sun.
Then mighty Dupar from Garama's Plain,
And valiant Orfat, by his Arms were slain,
And many Warriours more, that bleeding lay
Their Eyes defrauded of their vital Ray.
Thus did the Chief unrivall'd Valour show,
And, where he fought, broke thro' th' opposing Foe,
And soon the Time will come, that shall reward
His Arms, that now so well his Country guard.
Great Molpo from the high Atlantick Hills,
Whose lofty Ridges far thro' Libya run
And with unmelted Snows upbraid the feeble Sun.
Then mighty Dupar from Garama's Plain,
And valiant Orfat, by his Arms were slain,
And many Warriours more, that bleeding lay
Their Eyes defrauded of their vital Ray.
Thus did the Chief unrivall'd Valour show,
And, where he fought, broke thro' th' opposing Foe,
And soon the Time will come, that shall reward
His Arms, that now so well his Country guard.
317
The Daran Chiefs with fresh Brigades attack
Th' Agmatian Lord, and strive to drive him back.
Now close in Fight the Foes each other prest,
And Foot to Foot they strove and Breast to Breast,
Whence on the Sand lay bleeding Heaps of Slain,
And ghastly Ruin fill'd the Purple Plain.
From mingled Cries by various Kinds of Death,
From Groans of Warriours gasping out their Breath,
From neighing Coursers, and the ringing Blows
Of Swords on Helms and Shields, such Clamour rose,
That all, who dwelt around, astonish'd stood,
Pity'd Mankind, and mourn'd th' Expence of Blood.
So when the raging Caves of Strombolo,
Hot Ætna, or sublime Vesuvius, throw
On high their Minerals and unfinish'd Oars,
In Earth's low Vaults imprison'd Thunder roars,
And with such Noise the pond'rous Vomit flies,
So shakes the Shores, and so embroils the Skies,
That all the neighb'ring Towns the Uproar hear,
And struggling Nature's Dissolution fear.
Th' Agmatian Lord, and strive to drive him back.
Now close in Fight the Foes each other prest,
And Foot to Foot they strove and Breast to Breast,
Whence on the Sand lay bleeding Heaps of Slain,
And ghastly Ruin fill'd the Purple Plain.
From mingled Cries by various Kinds of Death,
From Groans of Warriours gasping out their Breath,
From neighing Coursers, and the ringing Blows
Of Swords on Helms and Shields, such Clamour rose,
That all, who dwelt around, astonish'd stood,
Pity'd Mankind, and mourn'd th' Expence of Blood.
So when the raging Caves of Strombolo,
Hot Ætna, or sublime Vesuvius, throw
On high their Minerals and unfinish'd Oars,
In Earth's low Vaults imprison'd Thunder roars,
And with such Noise the pond'rous Vomit flies,
So shakes the Shores, and so embroils the Skies,
That all the neighb'ring Towns the Uproar hear,
And struggling Nature's Dissolution fear.
Mean Time with Fury Dara's King engag'd
Prince Alfred's Right, and thro' the Battle rag'd.
Boma; for Arts and martial Deeds renown'd,
First from his Spear receiv'd a fatal Wound;
He sinking groan'd and gasp'd, and grovling lay,
Till Death excluded from his Eyes the Day.
Striving th' invading Monarch to repell
Next noble Braga much lamented fell;
The fatal Javelin pierc'd his bleeding Veins,
Wounded his Bowels, and transfixt his Reins.
Next his broad Fauchion's horizontal Blow
Struck off brave Narva's Head, a gen'rous Foe,
Who, tho' a Patriot, was the Court's Delight;
His Trunk dismember'd quiv'ring lay to Sight
Ghastly, while all his sever'd Art'ries bled,
Bath'd the dry Sand, and warm'd the neighb'ring Dead.
Then Sorba, Boscan, Kindred to the Crown,
Burkell and Mofa Chiefs of high Renown,
And mighty Darkan from fair Guada's Plain,
Fell by the Monarch's Arms in Battle slain.
Prince Alfred's Right, and thro' the Battle rag'd.
Boma; for Arts and martial Deeds renown'd,
First from his Spear receiv'd a fatal Wound;
318
Till Death excluded from his Eyes the Day.
Striving th' invading Monarch to repell
Next noble Braga much lamented fell;
The fatal Javelin pierc'd his bleeding Veins,
Wounded his Bowels, and transfixt his Reins.
Next his broad Fauchion's horizontal Blow
Struck off brave Narva's Head, a gen'rous Foe,
Who, tho' a Patriot, was the Court's Delight;
His Trunk dismember'd quiv'ring lay to Sight
Ghastly, while all his sever'd Art'ries bled,
Bath'd the dry Sand, and warm'd the neighb'ring Dead.
Then Sorba, Boscan, Kindred to the Crown,
Burkell and Mofa Chiefs of high Renown,
And mighty Darkan from fair Guada's Plain,
Fell by the Monarch's Arms in Battle slain.
And while he made this terrible Effort,
Th' Agmatians long the bloody War support,
Till born by Numbers down, and forc'd to yield;
Their broken Cohorts left th' unequal Field.
The Daran Squadrons Sword in Hand pursue,
Hung on their Rear, and num'rous Warriours slew:
Then sure of Conquest and with Plunder pleas'd
They on the Camp and wealthy Baggage seiz'd.
Th' Agmatians long the bloody War support,
Till born by Numbers down, and forc'd to yield;
Their broken Cohorts left th' unequal Field.
The Daran Squadrons Sword in Hand pursue,
Hung on their Rear, and num'rous Warriours slew:
Then sure of Conquest and with Plunder pleas'd
They on the Camp and wealthy Baggage seiz'd.
319
While thus the Foe in gath'ring Spoils employ'd
A half-won Vict'ry's unripe Fruits enjoy'd,
Alfred, that held his stagg'ring Foot from Flight
Inspir'd fresh Courage and renew'd the Fight,
Return'd the Daran Horse again invades,
And made vast Havock 'midst their thick Brigades;
He broke th' opposing Files, and Victor spread
The Ground with wounded Chiefs and Heaps of Dead.
As when a Torrent from the melting Snows
Of Libya's lofty Mountains rapid flows
Down the rude Tracts to feed the craving Nile,
Fill his dry Caves, and chear burnt Egypt's Soil,
It bears down Rocks and Forrests in its Course,
And gains the Valley with resistless Force.
The Briton so the Daran's Troops o'erthrew,
That felt his dreadful Sword or from it flew.
While now no Leader of superiour Fame,
And bold in Fight, to charge the Briton came,
A While his fatal Weapons he suspends,
Nor glitt'ring Deaths by Spear or Javelin sends
On Messages inglorious, while from far
The clam'rous Bands maintain'd unhurtful War.
As when a Yelper of the mongrel Race
Flies out, and barking fierce presumes to face
A fearless Mastiff of the gen'rous Kind,
Which Men in Albion or Thessalia find,
He unconcern'd does Looks disdainful throw,
And careless thro' the Streets advances slow,
Scorns the base Strife, and asks a nobler Foe.
So did the Heroe vulgar Combate slight
And spar'd his Arms, when now appear'd in Sight
A Chief of dreaded Name, Darvenna's Lord,
A Rival worthy of the Briton's Sword:
Soon as the Daran saw Prince Alfred near,
With mighty Strength he hurl'd his glitt'ring Spear,
And had not Alfred's Shield the Weapon staid,
Its Point had thro' his Breast its Passage made.
The Briton then projected his, aside
It flew, and Rocar by its Errour dy'd.
Their hissing Deaths a while alternate past,
As yet with untriumphant Labour cast,
While every Javelin and projected Lance
Stay in their Shields, or thence recoiling glance:
Then Alfred griev'd, that Victory so long
Hov'ring in Air with balanc'd Pinions hung,
Eager of Conquest gather'd up his Might,
And straining all his Nerves to end the Fight,
His pond'rous Spear against the Daran threw,
Which thro' his polish'd Shield impetuous flew,
And thro' the Cuirass wounded deep his Side,
Whence streaming Blood his splendid Armour dy'd.
A half-won Vict'ry's unripe Fruits enjoy'd,
Alfred, that held his stagg'ring Foot from Flight
Inspir'd fresh Courage and renew'd the Fight,
Return'd the Daran Horse again invades,
And made vast Havock 'midst their thick Brigades;
He broke th' opposing Files, and Victor spread
The Ground with wounded Chiefs and Heaps of Dead.
As when a Torrent from the melting Snows
Of Libya's lofty Mountains rapid flows
Down the rude Tracts to feed the craving Nile,
Fill his dry Caves, and chear burnt Egypt's Soil,
It bears down Rocks and Forrests in its Course,
And gains the Valley with resistless Force.
The Briton so the Daran's Troops o'erthrew,
That felt his dreadful Sword or from it flew.
While now no Leader of superiour Fame,
And bold in Fight, to charge the Briton came,
A While his fatal Weapons he suspends,
Nor glitt'ring Deaths by Spear or Javelin sends
On Messages inglorious, while from far
The clam'rous Bands maintain'd unhurtful War.
As when a Yelper of the mongrel Race
Flies out, and barking fierce presumes to face
A fearless Mastiff of the gen'rous Kind,
Which Men in Albion or Thessalia find,
320
And careless thro' the Streets advances slow,
Scorns the base Strife, and asks a nobler Foe.
So did the Heroe vulgar Combate slight
And spar'd his Arms, when now appear'd in Sight
A Chief of dreaded Name, Darvenna's Lord,
A Rival worthy of the Briton's Sword:
Soon as the Daran saw Prince Alfred near,
With mighty Strength he hurl'd his glitt'ring Spear,
And had not Alfred's Shield the Weapon staid,
Its Point had thro' his Breast its Passage made.
The Briton then projected his, aside
It flew, and Rocar by its Errour dy'd.
Their hissing Deaths a while alternate past,
As yet with untriumphant Labour cast,
While every Javelin and projected Lance
Stay in their Shields, or thence recoiling glance:
Then Alfred griev'd, that Victory so long
Hov'ring in Air with balanc'd Pinions hung,
Eager of Conquest gather'd up his Might,
And straining all his Nerves to end the Fight,
His pond'rous Spear against the Daran threw,
Which thro' his polish'd Shield impetuous flew,
And thro' the Cuirass wounded deep his Side,
Whence streaming Blood his splendid Armour dy'd.
321
Their Weapons wasted, which they threw from far,
The Combatants advance to closer War.
The Daran Chief hot to revenge his Wound,
With stern Defiance travers'd first the Ground,
Then wav'd his pond'rous Fauchion o'er his Head,
And in proud Words pronounc'd the Briton dead.
Alfred incens'd, his Breath and Strength restor'd,
Assail'd his Rival with his flaming Sword,
And, while, his Arm high rais'd, a mortal Blow
The Combatant prepar'd to sink his Foe,
The Briton thrust his Weapon's glitt'ring Point
With Force resistless thro' his Armour's Joint;
Between the Warriour's Ribs it furious went,
And in his bleeding Heart its Vigour spent:
He fell, and found his vital Spirits yield,
Indignant gnash'd his Teeth, and bit the Field.
Now, Numbers lost and their fam'd Champion slain,
The Daran Troops unable to sustain
Th' unequal Conflict in amazing Dread,
Routed and ruin'd, from the Battle fled.
The Combatants advance to closer War.
The Daran Chief hot to revenge his Wound,
With stern Defiance travers'd first the Ground,
Then wav'd his pond'rous Fauchion o'er his Head,
And in proud Words pronounc'd the Briton dead.
Alfred incens'd, his Breath and Strength restor'd,
Assail'd his Rival with his flaming Sword,
And, while, his Arm high rais'd, a mortal Blow
The Combatant prepar'd to sink his Foe,
The Briton thrust his Weapon's glitt'ring Point
With Force resistless thro' his Armour's Joint;
Between the Warriour's Ribs it furious went,
And in his bleeding Heart its Vigour spent:
He fell, and found his vital Spirits yield,
Indignant gnash'd his Teeth, and bit the Field.
Now, Numbers lost and their fam'd Champion slain,
The Daran Troops unable to sustain
Th' unequal Conflict in amazing Dread,
Routed and ruin'd, from the Battle fled.
Then Alfred drew his Squadrons in Array,
And march'd to meet the Monarch on his Way
Laden with Riches by his Arms procur'd,
And of the Battle won too soon assur'd.
Soon as the Daran saw the Foe advance,
And found the Troops he left, by fatal Chance,
Were vanquish'd, loud he curs'd his hapless Fate,
Of his rash Errour now convinc'd too late.
Soon did the Briton bright in Arms invade
The Foe's Battalions at his Sight dismay'd,
And of their Youth immense Destruction made.
Broke by his Charge their disarray'd Remains
O'erspread with scatter'd Spoils the Hills and Plains,
Marks of their Army's ignominious Rout:
The Victor suff'ring much by Toil and Drought
Chac'd Dara's King, who hindmost left the Fight
With Chiefs the sad Companions of his Flight,
And all the Anguish, Spleen, and Rage confess'd,
By proud discarded Ministers express'd;
But in the Chace, inglorious Fate! by Chance
The Monarch wounded by a random Launce
Cast by a vulgar Hand expiring fell,
And sunk, where Treaty-Breakers rave, to Hell.
And march'd to meet the Monarch on his Way
Laden with Riches by his Arms procur'd,
And of the Battle won too soon assur'd.
322
And found the Troops he left, by fatal Chance,
Were vanquish'd, loud he curs'd his hapless Fate,
Of his rash Errour now convinc'd too late.
Soon did the Briton bright in Arms invade
The Foe's Battalions at his Sight dismay'd,
And of their Youth immense Destruction made.
Broke by his Charge their disarray'd Remains
O'erspread with scatter'd Spoils the Hills and Plains,
Marks of their Army's ignominious Rout:
The Victor suff'ring much by Toil and Drought
Chac'd Dara's King, who hindmost left the Fight
With Chiefs the sad Companions of his Flight,
And all the Anguish, Spleen, and Rage confess'd,
By proud discarded Ministers express'd;
But in the Chace, inglorious Fate! by Chance
The Monarch wounded by a random Launce
Cast by a vulgar Hand expiring fell,
And sunk, where Treaty-Breakers rave, to Hell.
Alfred surrounded with an endless Croud,
'Midst Shouts of Triumph and Applauses loud,
Returning enter'd Agmat's lofty Gate,
Where the first Courtiers his Arrival wait;
These to the King the Victor Heroe led;
He clasp'd him in his Arms, and gracious said,
Receive my Thanks, victorious Prince, and know
As to your Sword th' Agmatians Safety owe,
So your great Name in coming Ages here
Shall be to all, as now to Abal, dear.
'Midst Shouts of Triumph and Applauses loud,
Returning enter'd Agmat's lofty Gate,
Where the first Courtiers his Arrival wait;
These to the King the Victor Heroe led;
He clasp'd him in his Arms, and gracious said,
323
As to your Sword th' Agmatians Safety owe,
So your great Name in coming Ages here
Shall be to all, as now to Abal, dear.
And now the chearful Court their Hours employ
In Marks expressive of uncommon Joy;
While all, in Musick, Feasts, and various Plays,
Exhaust the Nights, and dissipate the Days.
The Youth in Sports and active Kinds of Game,
Eager of Conquest to assure a Name,
With Vigour strive; on Chariots mounted some
Exert their Art and Strength to overcome
Their Rivals, some on Steeds and some on Foot
Swift Races run, and some at Rovers shoot.
These with Address project the glitt'ring Lance,
Those rein hot Steeds, that bound, curvett & dance,
Or with Applause in Carousels advance.
With long protended Spears these tilting spring,
Those run with manag'd Coursers at the Ring.
The British Prince to honour Abal's Court
In Tournaments and Games of manly Sort
Was pleas'd his Strength and Skill to signalize,
And much applauded gain'd th' unenvy'd Prize.
In Marks expressive of uncommon Joy;
While all, in Musick, Feasts, and various Plays,
Exhaust the Nights, and dissipate the Days.
The Youth in Sports and active Kinds of Game,
Eager of Conquest to assure a Name,
With Vigour strive; on Chariots mounted some
Exert their Art and Strength to overcome
Their Rivals, some on Steeds and some on Foot
Swift Races run, and some at Rovers shoot.
These with Address project the glitt'ring Lance,
Those rein hot Steeds, that bound, curvett & dance,
Or with Applause in Carousels advance.
With long protended Spears these tilting spring,
Those run with manag'd Coursers at the Ring.
The British Prince to honour Abal's Court
In Tournaments and Games of manly Sort
Was pleas'd his Strength and Skill to signalize,
And much applauded gain'd th' unenvy'd Prize.
324
Abal aspiring to heroick Fame
Had, in preceeding Years, advanc'd his Name,
Enlarg'd his Empire by successful Arms,
And fill'd all Libya's Realms with loud Alarms.
Vict'ry, with Lawrel-Honours in her Hand,
Her shining Wings auspicious did expand
And circling hover'd o'er the Monarch's Head,
When he his Armies forth to Battle led;
While vanquish'd Cities and submissive States
Rever'd his Pow'r, and humble Potentates
At the great Conqu'rour's Feet their Scepters laid,
Brought costly Presents, and his Favour pray'd.
On these he gracious smil'd, but with his Frowns
Shook disobedient tributary Crowns.
The num'rous Nations on the Western Shore,
Where the Atlantick foaming Billows roar,
From the Herculean Pillars to the Coast
Where tow'ring Claro's Head in Clouds is lost,
And from the inland Sea that laves the Strand
Of Tingitana to the Sun-burnt Land,
Where stretching West and East in azure Skies
The snowy Peaks of lofty Atlas rise;
The swarthy Tribes, that on Bardulio's Brink
Their Dwellings rear, or swift Bagrada Drink,
And all, that till the Glebe with gainful Toil,
From Fessa's Tow'rs to Targa's fruitless Soil,
To Abal's Yoke their Neck obsequious bow'd,
Own'd the great Monarch, and Allegiance vow'd;
While his Alarms shook distant Nubia's Towr's,
Nor dy'd unfelt by Æthiopia's Pow'rs.
Had, in preceeding Years, advanc'd his Name,
Enlarg'd his Empire by successful Arms,
And fill'd all Libya's Realms with loud Alarms.
Vict'ry, with Lawrel-Honours in her Hand,
Her shining Wings auspicious did expand
And circling hover'd o'er the Monarch's Head,
When he his Armies forth to Battle led;
While vanquish'd Cities and submissive States
Rever'd his Pow'r, and humble Potentates
At the great Conqu'rour's Feet their Scepters laid,
Brought costly Presents, and his Favour pray'd.
On these he gracious smil'd, but with his Frowns
Shook disobedient tributary Crowns.
The num'rous Nations on the Western Shore,
Where the Atlantick foaming Billows roar,
From the Herculean Pillars to the Coast
Where tow'ring Claro's Head in Clouds is lost,
And from the inland Sea that laves the Strand
Of Tingitana to the Sun-burnt Land,
Where stretching West and East in azure Skies
The snowy Peaks of lofty Atlas rise;
The swarthy Tribes, that on Bardulio's Brink
Their Dwellings rear, or swift Bagrada Drink,
And all, that till the Glebe with gainful Toil,
From Fessa's Tow'rs to Targa's fruitless Soil,
325
Own'd the great Monarch, and Allegiance vow'd;
While his Alarms shook distant Nubia's Towr's,
Nor dy'd unfelt by Æthiopia's Pow'rs.
Thus Abal reign'd in Triumph, till at last
He disesteem'd, surprizing Change of Taste!
Dominion, Pow'r, and Fame, which he before
Did, as the Idols of his Soul, adore.
Now burden'd with his Crown's oppressive Weight,
The Cares of Empire and the Yoke of State,
And with suspected secret Trouble pain'd
He much of royal Servitude complain'd.
From this Reverse of Relish known to few
His Manners varied, and less princely grew.
His solemn Looks and melancholy Mien
Shew'd Marks of inward Grief and Wounds unseen.
Oft the whole Night the Monarch wakeful lay
Revolving anxious Thoughts, and oft by Day
Retir'd in silent Groves he us'd to vent
In mournful Sighs his hidden Discontent.
Thus balancing a while he staid, but grown
Ill pleas'd with long Success, and of a Throne
No longer patient, did at length decree
Soon of his Crown his weary Head to free.
He disesteem'd, surprizing Change of Taste!
Dominion, Pow'r, and Fame, which he before
Did, as the Idols of his Soul, adore.
Now burden'd with his Crown's oppressive Weight,
The Cares of Empire and the Yoke of State,
And with suspected secret Trouble pain'd
He much of royal Servitude complain'd.
From this Reverse of Relish known to few
His Manners varied, and less princely grew.
His solemn Looks and melancholy Mien
Shew'd Marks of inward Grief and Wounds unseen.
Oft the whole Night the Monarch wakeful lay
Revolving anxious Thoughts, and oft by Day
Retir'd in silent Groves he us'd to vent
In mournful Sighs his hidden Discontent.
Thus balancing a while he staid, but grown
Ill pleas'd with long Success, and of a Throne
No longer patient, did at length decree
Soon of his Crown his weary Head to free.
326
Besides the sharp consuming Cares of State,
That haunt the Great and on proud Purple wait,
The King perceiv'd that dimly in its Urn
His wearing Lamp of Life began to burn,
And thought, thus prompted by declining Age,
He now should quit the busy publick Stage,
And act the King no longer, but retreat
To some obscure and unfrequented Seat,
Where Commerce with the Gods he might enjoy,
And the Remains of Life in Peace employ.
That haunt the Great and on proud Purple wait,
The King perceiv'd that dimly in its Urn
His wearing Lamp of Life began to burn,
And thought, thus prompted by declining Age,
He now should quit the busy publick Stage,
And act the King no longer, but retreat
To some obscure and unfrequented Seat,
Where Commerce with the Gods he might enjoy,
And the Remains of Life in Peace employ.
In the fair Region of Duccalia's Land,
That Elmedina's potent Lords Command,
On the sweet Margin of a silver Flood
A Fabrick fit for sweet Retirement stood.
Here lavish Nature clad in bright Array
Dispenses Plenty and Profusion gay;
'Midst various Pleasures ravishing to Sight,
And finish'd Scenes of exquisite Delight,
In a terrestrial Heav'n she seem'd enthron'd,
Young Joys and laughing Graces pour'd around.
The curious Trav'ller would with fruitless Toil
Attempt thro' all extended Libya's Soil
To find such rural Charms, on either Hand
Aspiring Hills rang'd in long Order stand
Sulime in Air, proud of their secret Store,
But of their Height, and Strength, and Beauty more.
Contiguous Trees their twining Branches spread,
Grace and enrich the Mountain's lofty Head,
Whence pleasant Rills of limpid Water flow
Down to refresh the smiling Vale below;
Where lost in Rivers they pursue their Race,
With confluent Arms and wanton Folds embrace,
And ling'ring leave the sweet voluptuous Place.
That Elmedina's potent Lords Command,
On the sweet Margin of a silver Flood
A Fabrick fit for sweet Retirement stood.
Here lavish Nature clad in bright Array
Dispenses Plenty and Profusion gay;
'Midst various Pleasures ravishing to Sight,
And finish'd Scenes of exquisite Delight,
In a terrestrial Heav'n she seem'd enthron'd,
Young Joys and laughing Graces pour'd around.
The curious Trav'ller would with fruitless Toil
Attempt thro' all extended Libya's Soil
To find such rural Charms, on either Hand
Aspiring Hills rang'd in long Order stand
327
But of their Height, and Strength, and Beauty more.
Contiguous Trees their twining Branches spread,
Grace and enrich the Mountain's lofty Head,
Whence pleasant Rills of limpid Water flow
Down to refresh the smiling Vale below;
Where lost in Rivers they pursue their Race,
With confluent Arms and wanton Folds embrace,
And ling'ring leave the sweet voluptuous Place.
Promiscuous Flow'rs in gay successive Bloom,
That various Hue from sportive Light assume,
Display their glossy Silks, the Pride of Nature's Loom;
While Myrtle-Bow'rs in fragrant Verdure dress'd,
And Groves with golden Luxury oppress'd,
Pomgranates, Citrons, Limes, as with Design
To charm the Eye, their diff'rent Pleasures joyn;
And to afford the ravish'd Smell Delight
Sweet-scented Spoils and balmy Steams unite,
While warm soft Breathing Zephyrs thro' the Air
On downy Wings the od'rous Treasure bear.
That various Hue from sportive Light assume,
Display their glossy Silks, the Pride of Nature's Loom;
While Myrtle-Bow'rs in fragrant Verdure dress'd,
And Groves with golden Luxury oppress'd,
Pomgranates, Citrons, Limes, as with Design
To charm the Eye, their diff'rent Pleasures joyn;
And to afford the ravish'd Smell Delight
Sweet-scented Spoils and balmy Steams unite,
While warm soft Breathing Zephyrs thro' the Air
On downy Wings the od'rous Treasure bear.
The King resolv'd to this delightful Seat
From Camps, and Courts, and Business to retreat,
And, pleas'd his anxious Bosom to unfold,
His form'd Design to favour'd Courtiers told.
They much surpris'd uncommon Grief express'd,
And oft their Prince with earnest Pray'r address'd,
And all the Words that troubled Love could find,
To touch the Monarch's Heart and change his Mind;
In vain—The King determin'd still appears
Deaf to Persuasion and unmov'd with Tears.
Now to the Lords assembled from the Throne
In this Harangue he made his Purpose known,
His Scepter in his Hand, and on his Head his Crown.
From Camps, and Courts, and Business to retreat,
And, pleas'd his anxious Bosom to unfold,
His form'd Design to favour'd Courtiers told.
328
And oft their Prince with earnest Pray'r address'd,
And all the Words that troubled Love could find,
To touch the Monarch's Heart and change his Mind;
In vain—The King determin'd still appears
Deaf to Persuasion and unmov'd with Tears.
Now to the Lords assembled from the Throne
In this Harangue he made his Purpose known,
His Scepter in his Hand, and on his Head his Crown.
Agmatians, long in Fortune's Arms caress'd,
Long with successful Fields and Empire bless'd,
I've run my Course, now, of the toilsome Task
The just Reward, Recess and Ease I ask.
See, like the Swain, his Labour done, I stand
Panting for Rest and due Repose demand
In Life's cool Ev'ning, but without his View
Still for fresh Toil lost Vigour to renew.
Long with successful Fields and Empire bless'd,
I've run my Course, now, of the toilsome Task
The just Reward, Recess and Ease I ask.
See, like the Swain, his Labour done, I stand
Panting for Rest and due Repose demand
In Life's cool Ev'ning, but without his View
Still for fresh Toil lost Vigour to renew.
Nor, Subjects, think your Monarch is inclin'd
By Aims ungenerous and an abject Mind;
I've Things in Order of their Merit rang'd,
Still my Ambition reigns, the Object chang'd.
What is the State that dazzles Mortals Sight,
And the proud Marks of Majesty and Might?
The Cares that mingle with imperial Sway,
If Wisdom holds the Scales, its Pomp outweigh.
Let others Laurels, Pow'r, and Greatness claim,
A brighter Course of Glory is my Aim:
While Pride and Lust of Empire I subdue,
And low ambitious Ends no more pursue;
No more for Pow'r enlarg'd by Conquest plead,
But my own Vict'ries chain'd in Triumph lead.
By Aims ungenerous and an abject Mind;
I've Things in Order of their Merit rang'd,
Still my Ambition reigns, the Object chang'd.
What is the State that dazzles Mortals Sight,
And the proud Marks of Majesty and Might?
329
If Wisdom holds the Scales, its Pomp outweigh.
Let others Laurels, Pow'r, and Greatness claim,
A brighter Course of Glory is my Aim:
While Pride and Lust of Empire I subdue,
And low ambitious Ends no more pursue;
No more for Pow'r enlarg'd by Conquest plead,
But my own Vict'ries chain'd in Triumph lead.
Nor hence conclude, that Pleasures I refuse;
No, I the chief and most exalted chuse,
While, Care and Trouble banish'd from my Breast,
I Peace enjoy and unmolested Rest:
The sweet Possessions of a thoughtful Mind
From Solitude deriv'd are more refin'd
And grateful, than the mean Delights that please
Voluptuous Minds, and loose Desires appease,
Delights that Change of Age or Taste destroy,
Repeated flatten, and familiar cloy.
No, I the chief and most exalted chuse,
While, Care and Trouble banish'd from my Breast,
I Peace enjoy and unmolested Rest:
The sweet Possessions of a thoughtful Mind
From Solitude deriv'd are more refin'd
And grateful, than the mean Delights that please
Voluptuous Minds, and loose Desires appease,
Delights that Change of Age or Taste destroy,
Repeated flatten, and familiar cloy.
Determin'd now, Agmatians, to acquire
The happy State at which my Thoughts aspire,
See, I renounce my Dignity and Crown,
Resign my Pow'r, and lay my Scepter down.
Then the bright Symbols of supream Command
He gave to high-born Bruno's faithful Hand,
And thus bespoke th' august Assembly, See,
From their Allegiance I my Subjects free.
Now one, whose high Endowments well are known,
And princely Virtues worthy of a Throne,
Agmatians, chuse delib'rate, yet with speed,
That may to this important Trust succeed;
Whose generous Deeds and publick Aims persuade
That he by Pow'r will no Man's Right invade;
But will the Poor from proud Oppressours guard,
Punish severe, and bountiful Reward;
One that by Toil and Suff'rings oft endur'd
Is for imperial Dignity matur'd;
Whence he will rein his Instincts, and controul
The Perturbations that distract the Soul;
Just, but indulgent, as the Pow'rs supream,
Will spare the Good, and Criminals condemn,
And rule his Kingdom more by Love than Dread,
By willing Subjects, not by Slaves, obey'd.
He paus'd—And then his Hand upon his Breast
Gracious th' assembled Lords he thus addrest;
Thus I your Prince—I err—th' Expression spare,
The royal Stile I can't so soon forbear—
The Diadem have taken from my Brow,
Unking'd your Sov'reign, and absolv'd your Vow.
The happy State at which my Thoughts aspire,
See, I renounce my Dignity and Crown,
Resign my Pow'r, and lay my Scepter down.
Then the bright Symbols of supream Command
He gave to high-born Bruno's faithful Hand,
330
From their Allegiance I my Subjects free.
Now one, whose high Endowments well are known,
And princely Virtues worthy of a Throne,
Agmatians, chuse delib'rate, yet with speed,
That may to this important Trust succeed;
Whose generous Deeds and publick Aims persuade
That he by Pow'r will no Man's Right invade;
But will the Poor from proud Oppressours guard,
Punish severe, and bountiful Reward;
One that by Toil and Suff'rings oft endur'd
Is for imperial Dignity matur'd;
Whence he will rein his Instincts, and controul
The Perturbations that distract the Soul;
Just, but indulgent, as the Pow'rs supream,
Will spare the Good, and Criminals condemn,
And rule his Kingdom more by Love than Dread,
By willing Subjects, not by Slaves, obey'd.
He paus'd—And then his Hand upon his Breast
Gracious th' assembled Lords he thus addrest;
Thus I your Prince—I err—th' Expression spare,
The royal Stile I can't so soon forbear—
The Diadem have taken from my Brow,
Unking'd your Sov'reign, and absolv'd your Vow.
331
Now Farewel Empire, Farewel Pomp and State,
Ye envy'd Honours that on Greatness wait.
Projects adieu, adieu to publick Toil,
To Triumphs, Trophies, and to hostile Spoil.
My Ministers, who did my Counsels guide,
And weighty Burdens with your Prince divide,
Of you and State-Fatigues I take my Leave,
My Thanks unfeign'd to Merit due receive.
To you, my valiant Chiefs, a long Adieu.
Grateful my Debt, brave Men, I pay to you
That shar'd my Toil and Dangers past, and stood
Expos'd to various Deaths for publick Good.
Farewel, my lov'd Agmatians, to my dear
And loyal People I no more appear.
This last Expression of indulgent Love
To loyal Subjects did the Monarch move,
And touch'd his Heart so near, moist Dews apace
Gush'd from his Eyes and trickled down his Face.
Now from th' assembled Court the King departs;
This pierc'd their Breasts and enter'd deep their Hearts.
Th' Agmatian Lords, almost dissolv'd before,
Their swelling Passions now resist no more,
But bath'd in Tears by rival Trouble show
A finish'd Triumph of ungovern'd Woe:
No Fancy can suggest, no Tongue affords
Sufficient Choice of strong descriptive Words,
That these sad Strains of Sorrow can express,
And paint this Scene of exquisite Distress.
Ye envy'd Honours that on Greatness wait.
Projects adieu, adieu to publick Toil,
To Triumphs, Trophies, and to hostile Spoil.
My Ministers, who did my Counsels guide,
And weighty Burdens with your Prince divide,
Of you and State-Fatigues I take my Leave,
My Thanks unfeign'd to Merit due receive.
To you, my valiant Chiefs, a long Adieu.
Grateful my Debt, brave Men, I pay to you
That shar'd my Toil and Dangers past, and stood
Expos'd to various Deaths for publick Good.
Farewel, my lov'd Agmatians, to my dear
And loyal People I no more appear.
This last Expression of indulgent Love
To loyal Subjects did the Monarch move,
And touch'd his Heart so near, moist Dews apace
Gush'd from his Eyes and trickled down his Face.
Now from th' assembled Court the King departs;
This pierc'd their Breasts and enter'd deep their Hearts.
Th' Agmatian Lords, almost dissolv'd before,
Their swelling Passions now resist no more,
But bath'd in Tears by rival Trouble show
A finish'd Triumph of ungovern'd Woe:
No Fancy can suggest, no Tongue affords
Sufficient Choice of strong descriptive Words,
332
And paint this Scene of exquisite Distress.
Soon as the Sun with beamy Honours crown'd
Had all the adverse Stages of his Round
Compleated, each great Lord and every Head
Of the Plebeians now assembled, led
By Views of publick Int'rest not their own,
To chuse some Heroe fit to mount the Throne;
Nor was the Choice deferr'd, for all decreed
The British Prince most worthy to succeed
Their late great Sov'reign, him they Monarch name,
And Shouts of Joy th' elected King proclaim.
Had all the adverse Stages of his Round
Compleated, each great Lord and every Head
Of the Plebeians now assembled, led
By Views of publick Int'rest not their own,
To chuse some Heroe fit to mount the Throne;
Nor was the Choice deferr'd, for all decreed
The British Prince most worthy to succeed
Their late great Sov'reign, him they Monarch name,
And Shouts of Joy th' elected King proclaim.
Alfred the Just, now on a Chair of State
Curious to see th' important Issue sate;
Then rising from his Seat stretch'd forth his Hand
And looking round did by his Mien demand
Attention—Then the Heroe Silence broke,
And gracious thus th' Agmatian Chiefs bespoke;
The Honour done me this auspicious Day,
That would advance me to imperial Sway
And fill Ambition's most enlarg'd Desire,
The utmost Strains of Gratitude require.
While Breath inspir'd shall feed my vital Flame,
And active Spirits animate this Frame,
Your Nation's Honour thankful I'll defend,
Divulge your Favours and your Fame extend.
But know, Agmatians, by a sacred Vow
I'm strictly bound, should gracious Heav'n allow
Alfred, deliver'd from my various Toil
And Dangers, to regain Britannia's Isle,
In War to guard my Country, and in Peace
To raise her Empire and her Wealth encrease:
Your gen'rous Offer hence I must refuse;
Do you some wise and valiant Native chuse
Of all th' illustrious Qualities possess'd
That your late King, to guide you right, express'd;
Who may th' Agmatian Throne applauded fill,
And rule by Law and not despotick Will.
Curious to see th' important Issue sate;
Then rising from his Seat stretch'd forth his Hand
And looking round did by his Mien demand
Attention—Then the Heroe Silence broke,
And gracious thus th' Agmatian Chiefs bespoke;
The Honour done me this auspicious Day,
That would advance me to imperial Sway
And fill Ambition's most enlarg'd Desire,
The utmost Strains of Gratitude require.
While Breath inspir'd shall feed my vital Flame,
And active Spirits animate this Frame,
333
Divulge your Favours and your Fame extend.
But know, Agmatians, by a sacred Vow
I'm strictly bound, should gracious Heav'n allow
Alfred, deliver'd from my various Toil
And Dangers, to regain Britannia's Isle,
In War to guard my Country, and in Peace
To raise her Empire and her Wealth encrease:
Your gen'rous Offer hence I must refuse;
Do you some wise and valiant Native chuse
Of all th' illustrious Qualities possess'd
That your late King, to guide you right, express'd;
Who may th' Agmatian Throne applauded fill,
And rule by Law and not despotick Will.
He ceas'd—And troubled they at length resolv'd
Their Fate on Alfred's Vote should be devolv'd:
Then all th' assembled Chiefs the Briton pray'd
To name the Heroe who should be obey'd.
Their Fate on Alfred's Vote should be devolv'd:
Then all th' assembled Chiefs the Briton pray'd
To name the Heroe who should be obey'd.
Then Alfred thus—Lords worthy of the Throne
Of Agmat to Agmatians best are known.
Can I a Stranger here presume to tell
What Chiefs in princely Virtues most excell?
But since, if, as you ask, I give my Voice,
I may procure a speedy peaceful Choice,
And long Disputes and Party-Feuds prevent,
To name a gen'rous Patriot I consent.
Brave Golan I pronounce a Heroe fit
To whom imperial Pow'r you may commit.
He in the bloody Battle lately fought,
To his immortal Honour Wonders wrought,
And by his equal, unelated Mind,
That all Distinction and Applause declin'd,
And various other Virtues, has express'd
Superiour Merit, and his Country bless'd.
Of Agmat to Agmatians best are known.
Can I a Stranger here presume to tell
What Chiefs in princely Virtues most excell?
But since, if, as you ask, I give my Voice,
I may procure a speedy peaceful Choice,
334
To name a gen'rous Patriot I consent.
Brave Golan I pronounce a Heroe fit
To whom imperial Pow'r you may commit.
He in the bloody Battle lately fought,
To his immortal Honour Wonders wrought,
And by his equal, unelated Mind,
That all Distinction and Applause declin'd,
And various other Virtues, has express'd
Superiour Merit, and his Country bless'd.
Then Agmat's Chiefs their Monarch Golan own,
And judg'd him worthy of th' imperial Throne,
While Hills and Dales with Acclamations ring,
And echoing Shouts declare the chosen King.
And judg'd him worthy of th' imperial Throne,
While Hills and Dales with Acclamations ring,
And echoing Shouts declare the chosen King.
| Alfred | |