Page:The Works of Lord Byron (ed. Coleridge, Prothero) - Volume 3.djvu/267

CANTO I.] To probe his heart and watch his changing cheek,

At once the observer's purpose to espy,

And on himself roll back his scrutiny,

Lest he to Conrad rather should betray

Some secret thought, than drag that Chief's to day.

There was a laughing Devil in his sneer,

That raised emotions both of rage and fear;

And where his frown of hatred darkly fell,

Hope withering fled—and Mercy sighed farewell!

Slight are the outward signs of evil thought,

Within—within—'twas there the spirit wrought!

Love shows all changes—Hate, Ambition, Guile,

Betray no further than the bitter smile;

The lip's least curl, the lightest paleness thrown

Along the governed aspect, speak alone