Page:Cyder - a poem in two books (1708).djvu/88

BOOK II. All Europe fears Revenge, or hopes Redress. Rejoice, O Albion! sever'd from the World By Nature's wise Indulgence, indigent Of nothing from without; in One Supreme Intirely blest; and from beginning time Design'd thus happy; but the fond Desire Of Rule, and Grandeur, multiply'd a Race Of Kings, and numerous Sceptres introduc'd, Destructive of the public Weal: For now Each Potentate, as wary Fear, or Strength, Or Emulation urg'd, his Neighbour's Bounds Invades, and ampler Territory seeks With ruinous Assault; on every Plain Host cop'd with Host, dire was the Din of War, And ceaseless, or short Truce haply procur'd By Havoc, and Dismay, 'till Jealousy Rais'd new Combustion: Thus was Peace in vain Sought for by Martial Deeds, and Conflict stern: Rh