Page:The poetical works of Matthew Arnold, 1897.djvu/369

Rh Of peace, and been repulsed with hate and scorn.

Fair terms of reconcilement, equal rule,

I offer'd to my foes, and they refused;

Worse terms than mine they have obtain'd from Heaven.

Dire is this blow for Merope; and I

Wish'd, truly wish'd, solution to our broil

Other than by this death; but it hath come!

I speak no word of boast, but this I say:

A private loss here founds a nation's peace.

THE CHORUS.

Peace, who tarriest too long;

Peace, with delight in thy train;

Come, come back to our prayer!

Then shall the revel again

Visit our streets, and the sound

Of the harp be heard with the pipe,

When the flashing torches appear

In the marriage-train coming on,

With dancing maidens and boys—

While the matrons come to the doors,

And the old men rise from their bench,

When the youths bring home the bride.

Not condemn'd by my voice

He who restores thee shall be,

Not unfavor'd by Heaven.

Surely no sinner the man,

Dread though his acts, to whose hand

Such a boon to bring hath been given.

Let her come, fair Peace! let her come!

But the demons long nourish'd here,