The Poetical Works of John Dryden, Volume 1 - With Life, Critical Dissertation, and Explanatory Notes by John Dryden
page 52 of 420 (12%)
page 52 of 420 (12%)
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Nor do his wings with sickly feathers droop:
Soft western winds waft o'er the gaudy spring, And open'd scenes of flowers and blossoms bring, 30 To grace this happy day, while you appear, Not king of us alone, but of the year. All eyes you draw, and with the eyes the heart: Of your own pomp, yourself the greatest part: Loud shouts the nation's happiness proclaim, And Heaven this day is feasted with your name. Your cavalcade the fair spectators view, From their high standings, yet look up to you. From your brave train each singles out a prey, And longs to date a conquest from your day. 40 Now charged with blessings while you seek repose, Officious slumbers haste your eyes to close; And glorious dreams stand ready to restore The pleasing shapes of all you saw before. Next to the sacred temple you are led, Where waits a crown for your more sacred head: How justly from the church that crown is due, Preserved from ruin, and restored by you! The grateful choir their harmony employ, Not to make greater, but more solemn joy. 50 Wrapt soft and warm your name is sent on high, As flames do on the wings of incense fly: Music herself is lost; in vain she brings Her choicest notes to praise the best of kings: Her melting strains in you a tomb have found, And lie like bees in their own sweetness drown'd. He that brought peace, all discord could atone, |
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