Page:The Excursion, Wordsworth, 1814.djvu/262

236 And traversed only by a few faint paths,

Imposes, whensoe'er untoward chance

(Such chance is rare) detains him till the night

Falls black upon the hills. "But come," she said,

"Come let me lead you to our poor Abode.

Behind those rocks it stands, as if it shunned,

In churlishness, the eye of all mankind;

But the few Guests who seek the door receive

Most hearty welcome."—Entering I beheld

A blazing fire—beside a cleanly hearth

Sate down; and to her office, with leave asked,

The Dame returned.—Before that glowing pile

Of mountain turf required the Builder's hand

Its wasted splendour to repair, the door

Opened, and she re-entered with glad looks,

Her Helpmate following. Hospitable fare,

Frank conversation, made the evening's treat.

Need a bewildered Traveller wish for more?

But more was given; the eye, the mind, the heart,

Found exercise in noting, as we sate

By the bright fire, the good Man's face—composed

Of features elegant; an open brow

Of undisturbed humanity; a cheek