Page:Tale of Paraguay - Southey.djvu/120

114

It was a land of priestcraft, but the priest Believed himself the fables that he taught: Corrupt their forms, and yet those forms at least Preserved a salutary faith that wrought, Maugre the alloy, the saving end it sought. Benevolence had gain'd such empire there, That even superstition had been brought An aspect of humanity to wear, And make the weal of man its first and only care.

Nor lack'd they store of innocent delight, Music and song and dance and proud array, Whate'er might win the ear, or charm the sight; Banners and pageantry in rich display Brought forth upon some Saint's high holyday, The altar drest, the church with garlands hung, Arches and floral bowers beside the way, And festal tables spread for old and young, Gladness in every heart, and mirth on every tongue.