Page:Poems Sigourney 1827.pdf/172

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But straight to the palace of Neptune 't was tending As a bark to its haven is gallantly row'd, For yoked to that islet, his strength freely lending Was a well-harness'd whale, by a triton bestrode.

To welcome Sabrina with dances and gladness Her companions came forth from their coral-roof'd bowers, With smiles and caresses they stifled her sadness, Brought vases of shell-work, and Ocean's pale flowers.

But Neptune, grave king,—on his bright throne reclining, Thus caution'd the nymphs and the tritons,—"Beware! The mind that indulges in causeless repining,    Will still be the same, in earth, ocean, or air."

 

Sound, sound the charge!— Urge on the combatants to deeds of blood,— Embroil the forest-children with the lords Who seek their heritage.—The steep hill's base Is white with tents.—Beyond,—with curling wave Old Narragansett sweeps his swelling bay,— Indignant that his shores so oft resound The din of warfare,—and that murder's tide Curdles in those pure waters, which unstain'd Had flow'd from their Creation.— See!—they come!— They haste to battle.—One, with volleying flash, 