ODE.
ROCHEFORD'S RESOLUTION.
I
To th' oak, that near my cottage grew,
I gave a lingering, sad adieu;
I left my Zenophelia true
To Love's fine power:—
I felt the tear my cheek bedew,
In that sad hour.
II
Upon the mountain's side I stood,
Capt with Rothsay's arching wood;
And, as I view'd the mimic flood
So smooth and still,
I listen'd;—gazed in pensive mood;—
Then climb'd the hill.
III
“Adieu, thou wood-embosom'd spire!
“No longer shall my rustic lyre,
“In tender, simple, notes respire
“Thy tombs among:
“No longer will it soothe thy choir
“With funeral song.
IV
“The world before me;—I must rove
“Through Vice's glittering, vain, alcove;
“Alas!—as 'mid the world I move,
“Shall I have time
“To tremble at the name of love,
“And speak in rhyme?”
V
Five years are past, since thus I sigh'd;
Since to the world, without a guide,
My fortunes I opposed to pride:—
Oh! time mispent!
My pains are lost;—my talents try'd
With punishment!
VI
Now to my hamlet I'll retire,
Cured of every vain desire;
And burning with the sacred fire,
That charm'd my youth;
To love I'll dedicate my lyre,
And heaven-born truth.
