Page:The Excursion, Wordsworth, 1814.djvu/116

90 Through the dull mist, I following—when a step,

A single step, that freed me from the skirts

Of the blind vapour, opened to my view

Glory beyond all glory ever seen

By waking sense or by the dreaming soul!

—Though I am conscious that no power of words

Can body forth, no hues of speech can paint

That gorgeous spectacle—too bright and fair

Even for remembrance; yet the attempt may give

Collateral interest to this homely Tale.

The Appearance, instantaneously disclosed,

Was of a mighty City—boldly say

A wilderness of building, sinking far

And self-withdrawn into a wondrous depth,

Far sinking into splendor—without end!

Fabric it seemed of diamond and of gold,

With alabaster domes, and silver spires;

And blazing terrace upon terrace high

Uplifted; here, serene pavilions bright,

In avenues disposed; there, towers begirt

With battlements that on their restless fronts

Bore stars—illumination of all gems!

By earthly nature had the effect been wrought