Page:An Ode to the Country Gentlemen of England - Akenside (1758).djvu/5



is Europe's ancient spirit fled? Where are those valiant tenants of her shore, Who from the warrior bow the strong dart sped, Or with firm hand the rapid pole-axe bore? Freeman and soldier was their common name. Who late with reapers to the furrow came, Now in the front of battle charg'd the foe: Who taught the steer the wintry plough t' indure, Now in full councils check'd incroaching pow'r, And gave the gen'ral weal its majesty to know. Rh