Page:The Pleasures of Memory (Rogers).djvu/12

 The mouldering gateway strews the grass-grown court, Once the calm scene of many a simple sport; When nature pleas'd, for life itself was new, And the heart promis'd what the fancy drew.
 * See thro' the fractur'd pediment reveal'd,

Where moss inlays the rudely-sculptur'd shield, The martin's old, hereditary nest. Long may the ruin spare its hallow'd guest!




 * As jars the hinge, what sullen echoes call!

Oh haste, unfold the hospitable hall! That hall, where once, in antiquated state, The chair of justice held the grave debate.
 * Now stain'd with dews, with cobwebs darkly hung,

Oft has its roof with peals of rapture rung; When round yon ample board, in due degree, We sweeten'd every meal with social glee.