 | The Poetical Works of Robert Story |  |
XX.
“From out thy Chiefs, as far as in thee lies,For posts of power select the good and wise.
I say—and wise, for be it understood,
Not always wise, alas! we find the good.
But goodness, wisdom—in one soul combined—
Form ever the best Ruler of mankind.
Encourage arts—the useful still the most,
Yet never be the light and graceful lost;
These are the lovely gleams which—as they play—
Gild the dull vapours that would shade our day;
Or more—these by supernal power are given,
To tinge the else-bleak earth with hues of heaven!
And, as the highest far these arts among,
O cherish most the Bard's ennobling song—
Which to great actions gives deserved renown,
Embalms their memory, and transmits it down;
At the same time delights both soul and ear,
And makes men Patriots as they lean to hear!
| The Poetical Works of Robert Story | |