The pensive Sceptic of the lonely vale
To those acknowledgments subscribed his own,
With a sedate compliance, which the Priest
Failed not to notice, inly pleased, and said:–
"If ye, by whom invited I began
These narratives of calm and humble life,
Be satisfied, 'tis well,–the end is gained;
And in return for sympathy bestowed
And patient listening, thanks accept from me.
–Life, death, eternity! momentous themes
Are they–and might demand a seraph's tongue,
Were they not equal to their own support;
And therefore no incompetence of mine
Could do them wrong."
"Yet, by the good Knight's leave, the two estates
Are graced with some resemblance. Errant those,
Exiles and wanderers–and the like are these;
Who, with their burthen, traverse hill and dale,
Carrying relief for nature's simple wants."
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