Page:Oxford Book of English Verse 1250-1900.djvu/410

 That thence the Royal actor borne The tragic scaffold might adorn: While round the armèd bands Did clap their bloody hands.

He nothing common did or mean Upon that memorable scene, But with his keener eye The axe's edge did try;

Nor call'd the gods, with vulgar spite, To vindicate his helpless right; But bow'd his comely head Down, as upon a bed.

This was that memorable hour Which first assured the forcèd power: So when they did design The Capitol's first line,

A Bleeding Head, where they begun, Did fright the architects to run; And yet in that the State Foresaw its happy fate!

And now the Irish are ashamed To see themselves in one year tamed: So much one man can do   That does both act and know.

They can affirm his praises best, And have, though overcome, confest How good he is, how just And fit for highest trust.