Page:Dramas 2.pdf/252

240

With all their crofts and woodlands richly chequer'd, Have less variety than their bare sides.

Yes, when fleet shadows of the summer clouds, Like staghounds on the chase, each other follow Along their purple slopes; or when soft haze Spreads o'er them its light veil of pearly grey, Through the slight rents of which the sunshine steals, Showing bright colour'd moss and mottled stones, Like spots of polish'd beauty,—they appear Objects of varied vision most attractive.

Then, to behold them in their winter guise, As I have never done!

You might then see their forms enlarged and dark, Through the dim drapery of drifted rain, Like grim gigantic chieftains in array, Bidding defiance to approaching host; Or lifting their black shoulders o'er the mass Of volumed vapour gather'd round their base, Which seem like islands raised above the earth In purer regions of the firmament.