Announced a stranger near;
The brave beast bounded up aloft,
Nor was I free from fear.

But soon his master's voice represt
And call'd him to his side:
And soon I was the hermit's guest,
He was my guard and guide.

My own intrusion to excuse,
The wond'rous dog I prais'd,
Whose milder mien my eye reviews,
Delighted and amaz'd!

"If I disturb thy calm retreat,
Divinely calm indeed,
The noble servant at thy feet,
May for my pardon plead."

"That noble servant in my sight
Whom strength and grace adorn,
Announces, if I read aright,
A master nobly born."

The sire replied, with graceful bend,
"No not my servant, he!
A noble independent friend,
He deigns to live with me!"

"But, stranger, if you kindly rest,