Page:What cheer, or, Roger Williams in banishment (1896).pdf/63



[ The Wigwam—Massasoit and other Chiefs—The Wilderness—A Night in the Wilderness—The Narraganset or Coweset Country—Coweset Height.]

No pain is keener to the ardent mind, Filled with sublime and glorious intents, Than when strict judgment checks the impulse blind, And bids to watch the pace of slow events To time the action;—for it seems to bind The ethereal soul upon a fire intense, Lit by herself within the kindling breast, Prompting to act, while she restrains to rest.

II.

Two nights had passed, and, Waban lingering still, Williams began to doubt his steadfast faith; Quick was his foot o'er forest, vale and hill, His swerveless eyes aye keeping true his path. Why does he tarry? and the doubts instil Suspicions in our Sire of waking wrath Against his purpose in the barbarous clan, Whose fears e'en then on future dangers ran.

III.

But on the morrow's morn, while Williams mused,— Anxious and wondering at the long delay,— The wigwam's entrance, by the deer-skin closed, Abruptly opened, and a warrior gay Glided within it. To the sight unused Of Keenomp trimmed as for the battle fray, Williams, recoiling, gazed with fixed surprise On the fierce savage and his fearful guise.