Of my hands? Then I turn'd me self-banish'd, and came Into Thessaly here, where I met with the same As myself. I have heard how they met by a stream In games, and were suddenly changed by a scream That made wretches of many, as she roll'd her wild eyes Against heav'n, and so vanish'd.-The gentle and wise Lose their thoughts in deep studies, and others their ill In the mirth of mankind where they mingle them still. THE TWO PEACOCKS OF BEDFONT. I. ALAS! that breathing Vanity should go Uprisen from the naked bones below, In novel flesh, clad in the silent boast Of gaudy silk that flutters to and fro, Shedding its chilling superstition most On young and ignorant natures as it wont II. Each Sabbath morning, at the hour of prayer, Shining, far distant, in the summer air That flaunts their dewy robes and breathes between Their downy plumes, — sailing as if they were Two far-off ships, The churchyard's humble walls, and watch and wait On either side of the wide open'd gate. And there they stand III. - with haughty necks before God's holy house, that points towards the skiesFrowning reluctant duty from the poor,. And tempting homage from unthoughtful eyes: And Youth looks lingering from the temple door, Breathing its wishes in unfruitful sighs, With pouting lips, — forgetful of the grace, Of health, and smiles, on the heart-conscious face; IV. Because that Wealth, which has no bliss beside, With art, that blushes at itself, inspire Their languid cheeks — and flourish in a glory V. - The aged priest goes shaking his grey hair |