Page:Tale of Paraguay - Southey.djvu/122

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Far happier the Guaranies humble race, With whom in dutiful contentment wise, The gentle virtues had their dwelling place. With them the dear domestic charities Sustain'd no blight from fortune; natural ties There suffer'd no divorcement, save alone That which in course of nature might arise; No artificial wants and ills were known; But there they dwelt as if the world were all their own.

Obedience in its laws that takes delight Was theirs; simplicity that knows no art; Love, friendship, grateful duty in its height; Meekness and truth, that keep all strife apart, And faith and hope which elevate the heart Upon its heavenly heritage intent. Poor, erring, self-tormentor that thou art; O Man! and on thine own undoing bent, Wherewith canst thou be blest, if not with these content?