XVI.
‘The spacious Shenan, spreading like a sea,’
Lies far below, beyond the lawn and wood,
That, tender green, this, rich in purple bud;
And, hidden from the sight by bush and tree,
I hear a tinkling streamlet fall and flee
Through the deep glen to seek that distant flood;
Soft airs escape from the hill-side and scud,
With gentle touches, bird-like, wild, and free,
Across that glassy bosom. All is peace.
Would that with me such calm might ever dwell!
That I might live content, nor seek release
From cares appointed; never feel the swell
Of vague ambition; dream of no increase
In wealth or power; well loved, and loving well!
Mount Trenchard: April 6, 1860.
