Page:The Siege of Valencia.pdf/117

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A shadow, thus can fill the desolate space Of rooted up affections, o'er whose void Our yearning hearts must wither!—So it is, Dominion must be won!—Nay, leave me not— My heart is bursting, and I must be heard! Heaven hath given power to mortal agony As to the elements in their hour of might And mastery o'er creation!—Who shall dare To mock that fearful strength?—I must be heard! Give me my sons!

That they may live to hide With covering hands th' indignant flush of shame On their young brows, when men shall speak of him They call'd their father!—Was the oath, whereby, On th' altar of my faith, I bound myself, With an unswerving spirit to maintain This free and christian city for my God, And for my king, a writing traced on sand? That passionate tears should wash it from the earth, Or e'en the life-drops of a bleeding heart Efface it, as a billow sweeps away The last light vessel's wake?—Then never more Let man's deep vows be trusted!—though enforced