Page:The Prelude, Wordsworth, 1850.djvu/74

52 But we, by different roads, at length have gained

The self-same bourne. And for this cause to thee

I speak, unapprehensive of contempt,

The insinuated scoff of coward tongues,

And all that silent language which so oft

In conversation between man and man

Blots from the human countenance all trace

Of beauty and of love. For thou hast sought

The truth in solitude, and, since the days

That gave thee liberty, full long desired

To serve in Nature's temple, thou hast been

The most assiduous of her ministers;

In many things my brother, chiefly here

In this our deep devotion.

Fare thee well!

Health and the quiet of a healthful mind

Attend thee! seeking oft the haunts of men,

And yet more often living with thyself,

And for thyself, so haply shall thy days

Be many, and a blessing to mankind.