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The zeal I manifested to obtain An honourable peace, deserved success. Yet were they blighted, and a scornful laugh Rang through the council, as with honest pride I spoke of it as ratified; deceived, O'er-reached by diplomatic wiles, the foe Amused me with a hollow armistice, And ravaged all the frontier; Julian, Like a young lion rushing on his prey, Flew to avenge the wrong 'gainst fearful odds— So great, it seemed miraculous. He won A splendid victory; wrote terms of peace With his own sword in blood. The emperor, Amazed at such an unexpected stroke, Granted at once to this wild, headstrong boy, Conditions which I never dared propose. Thou know'st the clamours of the multitude,— The honours he received, but can'st not guess My damning tortures; let it pass.—You spoke Of love—the beauteous Veronica, she