Page:Beachy Head and Other Poems.pdf/18

10

Parthenope! within thy fertile bay Receiv'd the victors—

In the mailed ranks Of Normans landing on the British coast Rode Taillefer; and with astounding voice Thunder'd the war song daring Roland sang First in the fierce contention: vainly brave, One not inglorious struggle England made— But failing, saw the Saxon heptarchy Finish for ever.Then the holy pile, Yet seen upon the field of conquest, rose, Where to appease heaven's wrath for so much blood, The conqueror bade unceasing prayers ascend, And requiems for the slayers and the slain. But let not modern Gallia form from hence