Page:The works of Anna Laetitia Barbauld volume 1.djvu/316



the loud death drum, thundering from afar, O'er the vext nations pours the storm of war: To the stern call still Britain bends her ear, Feeds the fierce strife, the alternate hope and fear; Bravely, though vainly, dares to strive with Fate, And seeks by turns to prop each sinking state. Colossal power with overwhelming force Bears down each fort of Freedom in its course; Prostrate she lies beneath the Despot's sway, While the hushed nations curse him and obey. Bounteous in vain, with frantic man at strife, Glad Nature pours the means the joys of life;