f^- *We®»® , ®®fe©fe®'»®©®» LIBRARY OF CONGR'ESS. Chap 1>K-$$M~~ Shelf ...i.k±M.2>.. IITED STATES OF AMERICA [ j V! $Jm$&- ft /flf k M*4TI JLDid, OR THE WELCH COTTAGE. T. Plummer, Printer, Seething»Lant* IN THE PRESS. 1. Further Excursions of theOBSERVANT PEDESTRIAN, exemplified in a Tour to Margate. In 3 Volumes, by the Author of the Observant Pedestrian, in 2 Volumes; Montrose, or the Gothic Ruin, &c. &c. 2. MARTYN of FENROSE, or the WIZARD and the SWORD, a Romance. In 3 Volumes. 3. The SCOURGE of CONSCIENCE. In 3 Volumes. 4. The SPINSTER'S TALE; including Langbridge Fort, a Romance. Dedicated, by Permission, to Her Royal Highness the Duchess of York. By Ann Wingrove of Bath. 3. The TALISMAN, or singular Adventures of an Old Officer. In 3 Volumes. y MATILD A, OR 3D)e WLtltty Cottage, A POETIC TALE, BY THE AUTHOR OF THEODORE, OR THE GAMESTER'S PROGRESS} THE MARGATE NEW GUIDE} AND PARODIES ON GAY. HonSon : PRINTED FOR R. DUTTON, BIRCHIN-LANE > AND SOLD BY WHITE, FLEET-STREET; AND COBBETT & MORGAN, CROWN AND MITRE, PALL-MALL. 1801. • >©£ %°fl l^yr ATILBi, OP. THE WELCH COTTAGE. The world's a stately bark, on dang'rous seas "With pleasure seen, but boarded at our per A ; Here, on a single plank, thrown safe ashore, I hear the tumult of the distant throng As that of seas remote, or dying storms ; And meditate on scenes more silent still; Pursue my theme, and nght the fear of death. Younc. V V HERE Snowdon's mount in majesty sublime It's summit rears, and with protecting shade Shelt'ring the fertile valley at it's base, Tempers the heat of the meridian sun b 6 MATILDA. And bids to cherish, what, if unrestrained, Would work destruction with relentless pow'r ; Where nature pastimes uncontroul'd, and court Her vot'ries to partake the awful joy: Tis here I sing, and this my willing .theme ; The artless lux'xy of familiar scenes. A wealthy Father's bountiful bequest SecurM Monrose from fortune's random shaft ; Rich in the glittering substantial store, He felt protected 'gainst her utmost power ; Not that alone — th* inestimable lines, The preface to his fortune ; (the sweet pledge Of a fond father's still uiVminish'd love;) Secured his bosom 'gainst reflection's pang ; And tho' the tear swift rising unreprest Mourn'd a lov'd parent's death ;— -the fount was 'Twas purest woe, unbitter'd by remorse, [ckar €i To thee, my Son, whose ever gentle nature " Knew not to rise against a father's will, MATILDA. " Whose mind, unspotted by a thought impure " Seem'd Virtue's treasury ; whose pitying heart BASS AGE OF MOUNT ST. GOTHARD, Love, first learned in a Lady's eyes, Lives not alone immured in the brain, But with the motion of all elements Courses as swift as thought in ev'ry pow'r, And gives to ev'ry pow'r a double pow'r Above their functions and their offices. Shakespere, TWAS here Moprose in silent wonder gaz'd ; Till now, no prospect his astonish'd eye Had so entranc'd; " Behold the spot;" he cried, " Where I could willing live, methinks, forever, u Within these rugged walls if Virtue dwells, u Type of themselves, as artless,plain, and lasting" MATILDA. To Herbert's cottage slowly lie advanced •\nd touch'd the yielding wicket, wide it flew, Unus'd, like it's kind owner, to resist The Traveler's gentle effort. Pleas'd he gaz'd, Nor could he quell the soft attractive power That thus allur'd his eye to willing bondage. But say, ah! whence this soul-entrancing power, Whose gentle influence disarm'd resistance I Was it the placid venerable smile Playing in mild expression on the cheek Of pious Herbert, varied as the theme, Cherish'd, or chill'd, by happiness or woe— His manly voice emphatically rais'd Aided by looks of softest eloquence Shared by his grateful hearers. ? , Did the grave Attentive Matron strike his raptur'd sense, Who seem'd to fancy, as the strain sublime Fell from his lips in matchless energy, l6 MATILDA. By Milton pen'd; 'twas Milton's self that sung? Or was it thee, thou meek angelic maid ! Thy full blue eyes in modest steadiness, Fix'd on thy kind Instructor ; now the smile Sporting in grateful token of delight, While gazing in his face ; and now aside, In fondest hope thy Monitress should share The sacred bliss, with which thy swelling heart O'erflow'd, transported by th' exstatic theme? He gaz'd ; yet would not on the pious scene Too hastily intrude ; his eye implor'd A pardon for the first, (tho* mild) offence, Ere he dar'd need forgiveness of a second. The smile of Herbert met his timid glance ; The book was clos'd ; not so the lovely eye Of fair Matilda, who in modest gaze Seem'd to forget that Herbert spake no more, Nor let one sigh accompany the sound That slowly died upon his trembling lips. 17 MATILDA. The pious Bertha caught the soft alarm ; Her eve expressed benevolence — while yet Temper'd with Prudence for her lovely charge, Till sway'd by Heijxrt, beam'd on him alone, And gave the gen'rous smile, re-doubled lustre, # Monrose amaz'd, and charm'd, with gentle step Aclvanc'd, and siez'd his venerable hand; And while his bosom glow'd with grateful joy, Thus pleaded. (Tho' within each pitying breast A powerful advocate secur'd his cause.) " When the kind wicket yielded to my touch* * And hasten'd backward to invite my step, I paus'd, abash 'd; I shrunk, asham'd to view The rude effect, and from a stranger's hand; But you with smiles of gentlest eloquence, Forgave the rudeness in the traveler's welcome, " Allur'd me on, and taught me to be bold. " Yet ah ! resume the sweetly magic pa 18 MATILDA. cr Whose pious numbers from thy steady lips " Flow in majestic harmony, and suit " Most apt, the placid smile, the voice, the age/' (To Bertha now he turn'd, and softly spake) u Dare I to plead permission to engage, " A female advocate ? those eyes, methinks (And now his own on fair Matilda glanc'd) u Bear sweet persuasion; and a female eye " Speaks with resistless eloquence." A blush Suffus'd her lovely cheek; the beauteous dye Betray'd her fears lest he had seen and mark'd The smile of open unsuspecting welcome, And with the foplike vanity of youth. Had drawn from thence his flatt'ring inference. "The female eye" said Bertha, (to attract His fixM attention from the blushing maid) " Speaks varied language ; 'tis not in the Cot ** Of rustic plainness as beneath the roof u Where art displays her train of votaries ; " Where each new effort to evade the plan € Mark'd out by bounteous Nature> makes appeal MATILDA. 19 " To Fashion's willing pow r 'r, and from her stamp " Receives an unsubstantial currency. " 'Tis therethelLye is taught to speak, and change, f* The glance as suits the roving theme ; hut here u Displays the purest dictates of the heart." " Then was my judgment, (tho' presumptuous) right." Exclaim'd Monrose; " Your judgment could not Replied the Matron " in a cause like this; [err/' u I spoke to curb your general idea " Of female eloquence, lest all receive " A character deserv'd I trust "by few ; " And those most skill'd, least worthy your regard." " Alas! mistake not thus my honest meaning; " Tho' young, thank Heav'n! Monrose has not consum'd c< His morning years unprofited. He saw u Enough of art's allurements, to disgust A mind by early inclination pure; He chahg'd the scene; (a momentary change !) 20 MATILDA* " In varied mask the universal foe *' Appear 'd still hateful. O for ever blest " The day I bade the busy world farewell, 4€ Vot'ry of nature; let me then adore 4( Her lovely offspring; nor indulge a fear 4< Monrp.se will flatter where he cannot praise/* 44 O! helphim, dearest Bertha 'Herbert faints/' Matilda's voice arrests the pleasing theme; , He darts to raise his venerable Host, And ev'ry anxious effort to revive His drooping sense, receives Matilda's aid ; Wafted in sighs that mourn her feeble means, Mingled with tend'rest wishes for success. Thy prayers, angelic Maid ! are heard ; he opes His languid eyes, and gazes all around With vacant stare j he grasps Monrose's hand;, Matilda's still he holds, and as it were By sudden impulse irresistable, MATILDA. 21 I He presses both in one; Matilda's eye [ Again was eloquent; — Monrose replied: The softest language darted in a smile. Her full blue orbs receiv'd it's tender force, Both felt abash'd, yet dar'd not ask the cause. Bertha (still all-observant) kindly urg'd Repose, as likeliest to renovate Their valued host; — " Nor 'till the morn attempt u To ask the cause; be it my willing care" Exclaim'dMonrose/'to watch to-night his couch." Bertha seem'd anxious to dispute the charge, But Herbert a refusal gently wav'd, While fervent pressure on Monrose's hand, Interpreted his bosom's grateful meaning. u Kind Heaven restore him !" as she left the cot, Matilda softly sigh'd, " and bless thy ca e " Stranger, whoe'er thou art! Monrose advanc'd? c 22 MATILDA. He caught her parting words; she wav'dherhand. And, led by Bertha, with reluctant step Left the affecting scene. MATILDA. 23 O steep my senses in oblivion's balm ; And sooth my throbbing pulse with lenient hand ! T. Wartow Thy praise shall still employ my breath, Since thou hast mark'd my way to Heav'n; Nor will I run the road to death And waste the blessings thou hast giv'n. Dr. Watts. Thus let me hold thee to my heart And evYy care resign." Goldsmith. I N vain he urg'd With tend'rest zeal, to sit beside the couch Where Herbert slept — the good old man prepared The bed where oft the welcome tray'ller slept, c 2 24 MATILDA. (Whom chance or weariness had made his guest) And as he gently forced him to it's side, With fervent accent bless'd him, and retired. ** And Heaven bless thy hospitable soul!" Now sigh'd Monrose ; "and grant me but the means " To quitthy gen'rous care ! He sigh'd, for much His bosom was oppress'd. His restless mind Required repose ; he sank upon the bed, Thus wooing sleep, but many anxious thoughts Forbad the sweet refreshment. Herbert first Claim'd grateful meditation. Mystery Appear'd to govern every word and act; His sudden illness ; subsequent request To be attended by himself alone. And last, his ardent parent-like farewell, Crowded at once his agitated breast. Matilda next; but ah! the rising wish To see again the lovely maid, he dared Attempt to check; — in vain; — he- gentle care And filial-like affection for his host, MATILDA. £5 Demanded pleasing scrutiny; he knew The effort sweet, and his enraptur'd thoughts Pictured a sweet conclusion. Bertha too Conspired to check his slumbers. Did she guide Matilda's step with Motherly regard, Or was she but a prudent monitress Chosen protector of the lovely charger While thoughts like these continued to deny Sleep's welcome bondage, sounds of ardent prayer Struck his attentive ear. Twas Herbert's voice. In firm and pious tones; surpassing far The night's preceding eloquence. * THOU knew " O God of mercy ! ev'ry secret thought " That in this frail and corruptible form " Exerts it's feeble sway; THOU read'st my heart, u That ev'ry object centers in the wish " To know, and serve THEE more; and tho' at best g 3 £6 MATILDA. m Imperfect are the services of man, u Yet 'tis THY aid alone can give my soul u True comfort here, and hopes of future bliss, u O! grant me then (if such THY sacred will) " Such portion of THY grace omnipotent, u To see and hear the soft persuasive lures i€ Of kindred tenderness, and love, unshaken., " Shield me with fortitude to bear the pang u Of parting sorrow; (Nature will maintain " O'er our weak efforts still it's fondest sway,) u And let my honest uncorrupted heart, u While yielding to affection's impulse, feel u The tie that binds me to a life, to THEE * And THEE alone devoted. * Bless the youth! * Bless with THY fullest joys the young Monrose ! u Guide andprotecthim thro' the dang'rous path u Of mortal pilgrimage ; enrich his heart " With ail his parents virtues, to perceive MATILDA. 1>7 u How permanent the bliss where virtue dwells ; " Grant him Philanthropy ; delightful source * Whence purest blessings spring ! that teaches f? To know his real value, and derive [man f From his dependants' happiness his own." He ceas'd, and on the couch exhausted sank; Nor sank again unseen; Monrose was nigh; His arm the fainting supplicant receiv'd; The youth had heard his prayer, himself the theme, And flew to clear the seeming mystery. lC O let me not," he cried, " a moment stay, * Rack'd by the cruel tortures of suspense; " Relieve my burden' d soul ; nor let me thus « Remain in ling'ring agony. But ah ! " Thou need'st thyself some kind consoling friend « To cherish and support thy wand'ring spirits; " And I, of whom thou should'st command relief,, « Ungratefully increase thy bosom's anguish;" c 4 28 MATILDA. " O ! say not so," he cried, 'tis thou alone " Bring'st back delight to my deserted soul; " Years of submissive sorrow to the will m Of fate omnipotent, the calm approach u Of age had hasten'*}, (for the sigh of woe " Will through the breastwhere resignation dwells u Intrude uncourted, like the eastern gale " That oft relentless chills the sweets of spring) u Till thy arrival cheer'd the mournful gloom " That with consuming sorrow has obscur'd u My Life's mid-da}*, nor yet dissolves the cloud u Chaced by the mild effulgent ray of hope; " But spreads it's subtle substance to unfold " A fearful truth, that life is in it's eve, " Andnightprepares to close the transient scene." The accents faded on his trembling lips, Yet still he breathM, and fix'd his languid eye Upon the weeping youth's; and faintly look'd Such doatmg tenderness, as if therein Dwelt some fond charm to stay the ebb of life. ' MATILDA. 29 Monrose in silent sorrow mark'd the gaze t seem'd to dart the soul's best eloquence, As oft a feeble ray of heartfelt joy Displayed it's mild dominion. Thrice he sigh'd, lliabreasto'erwhelm'd with unaccording thoughts. Love, Duty and Humanity may dwell Joint tenants of one mansion, but exert An independant, and despotic sway. The rising combat in his tortured breast Raged unresisted, and the tide of woe Thus flow'd, and spoke the anguish of his soul. " O ! that I thus alone could spend my life " To calm thy griefs, and ever watch thy couch " With care unceasing ! that my willing power " Could make thy life as light and easy here u As will hereafter be thy height of bliss ! u How can I leave thee? thou to whom my heart u Beats w r ith instinctive tenderness; to whom 30 MATILDA. a I look for future safety and success,, u Arm'd with the lessons of thy sage advice, '" Affection's fondest dictates. 'Twas Monrose ** For whom thy fervent prayer was rais'd to hea- u And may I forfeit ev'ry blissful hope [ven, " Of man's short love, or Heav'ns eternal care, u If, while I live, my bosom cease to own u The sovereign tie of heartfelt gratitude !" A look expressive of the purest love Repaid the noble youth; 'twas two-fold joy; To see reviv'd his venerable Host, And that his first fond glance should dart on him* He thus, (oft sighing as he spake) went on. " A dying Father's mandate prompts my steps ; Methinks I still retain the parting sounds Of tenderness parental. " Take, my boy, u This packet to thy care ; be thine the task " To expiate my guilt." My soul was shock'd; Amaz'd, I started, but my trembling hand MATILDA. .31 He grasp 'cl, and in a stern yet feeble tone, 4s if he labored with an inward grief) Continued thus. w Injustice is the crime u That blots my fame, that weighs my sinking soul ; *- The world accounts me good, and gives my name ' An honored rank among it's public friends; " I know my guilt; that ever in my view, 1 Inverts the wonted glory of renown ; :i Changing sweet friendship and the world's- esteem u To swelling torment, and a daily curse. (i This packet the dread secret will disclose ; * Will publish forth my crime, will brand my " With everlasting infamy; but still [name * When once stern malice is sufficed, will plead (Not here perhaps in vain) the sinner's cause. There restsmyhope; A brother's boundless love " Will sue for me ; that sweet consoling thought " Becalms my woes; let Owen but forgive, And with his pardon speed my soul to Heaven !" 32 MATILDA, In broken sounds the lingering accents flow'd; And all was now in sad confusion lost; His senses fled ; — his eye-balls wildly roli'd. And then unalterably fix'd on me He sigh'd his last, and — left me to the world." " To me! to me he left thee!" now exclaim'd The soul-transported Herbert. " O my child! u My brother's darling boy! — In me behold " The injured happy Owen — bless'd in thee f The mem'ry of all former grief is fled ;• u I live again ; my brother lives in thee, u In this embrace I fold him to my liearL" MATILDA. 33 Marcia, they both arc high in my esteem j But in my love — why wilt thou make me name him? Addison's Cato. "Be thou as chaste as ice, as pure as snow. Thou shalt not escape calumny. Shakespere. TO Owen, and the father of Monrose, One day, one hour, one Mother gave existence. Equal her love, while equal were the claims Of infant weakness; while her anxious care Receiv'd full payment from their playful smiles; As when upon her circling arm they shar'd The soft overflowings of a blissful heart, Alighting on her babes in fond caresses. Why should I rend affection's gentle breast; Relating actions filial duty scorns? MATILDA. Why should I bid the tear suffuse the cheek Of young obedience ? (Gratifying sight! When youthful bosoms pant 'twixt hope and fear At interesting fiction, and awake To softest feelings, make the tale their own. When nature's impulse sways the pliant heart, Which yields to gen'rous sympathy; and pleas'd Partakes alike the sorrow and the joy.) Suffice it, then, that time too plainly shew'd Unequal tempers — spite of all the care The fondly anxious mother daily knows. Dudley, (Monrose's father) early shew'd Ambition his untutor'd bosom sway'd; While Owen's pliant breast so mildly swell'd With ev'ry lib'ral, soft, and noble feeling, A brother's foibles (tho' they met his view) Found no admittance there. He saw the fire That e'er illum'd his animated eye, And thought a manly emulation caus'd MATILDA. The spark that envy kindled. Soft reproof Would in such meekly-flowing accents meet His brother's ardor, quick the brow resum'd It's tranquil dignity, and blushing smiles Of conscious shame confestthegen'rous conquest. Youth then could blush, ere yet in art's throng'd school Taught to oppose fair Conscience' first rebukes, To mock at modesty, and spurn reproof. But ah ! too soon he check'd the timid blush, Urg'd by derisive sarcasm, which assaiPd With venomous intent; at distance first He viewed the lures of vice with front unchanged; Then nearer let them court him; 'till at length Familiarized to bear them, he admired. Ere yet of age, with equal flame, and pure As equal,, sigh'd each captivated youth. 38 MATILDA, Sophia was the model of her sex; Clad in the charms of native innocence, She captur'd hearts unconscious. of her power, And look'd most lovely when the least adorn'd. She heard their suit; she heard, and sigh'd; as both Possessed her friendship, (neither yet her love) For merit's plea was eloquent in each; Increas'd attention gain'd increas'd esteem, Both equal sharers of the rich reward ; Untoward fate! both loving, both belov'd. Young Dudley, ever eager in pursuit, Urg'd his superior claim; his ardent breast Glow'd with impatient love ; while Owen's eye, Swift messenger (and eloquent as swift) Of his rapt bosom's meaning — prompted oft By sighs of unequivocal intent, With matchless energy declar'd his passion. TILDA. 37 Hapless Sophia! gratitude impel'd A speedy choice, but each alike deservd Her yielding hq,nd; in generous suspense Awhile she stay'd, tho' oft a fervent hope In secret breath'd to find some cause their worth Determining; nor stay'd, alas! in vain. A note, one morn, upon her toilet laid, Caught her astonish'd eve: but more amaz'd Her pitying bosom, when with grief-struck gaze. She scan'd its cruel tidings. " Lovely maid ! €€ Beware the foul-intention'd Owen; proof too strong u Pierces the specious mask; beneath his smiles " Sits Envy brooding o'er projected ills, ' c And fiend-like malice-born hypocrisy e Lurks in each word, and governs ev'ry act. u Beware! fair creature; yet in time, beware'?" MATILDA. So long accustom'd to his cheering voice, So often charm'd when Owen swell'd the lav. Or touch'd the heart with tales of artless sorrow, Pen'd by simplicity ; alas ! how great The sacrifice to prudence ! yet how fit ! (Admittihg truth to pen the woe-fraught lines.) A passing glance o'erclouded by distrust, Awaken'd in the susceptible breast Of Owen, keenest pangs of sad amaze ; Silent he stood; but rapt in cheerless thought, He gave the fleeting minutes (which 'till now Had never past inactive, or in vain ;) To gloomy meditation; but the cause, The more he ponder'd on the maid's reserve, Seem'd farther distant from his tortur'd mind. A second meeting gain'd a like return; He caught her arm, and in the mildest tones Of woe unmerited, besought her pity. MATILDA. 39 But no! those smiles Sophia once ador'd, Those tender accents, those imploring strains Whose soft persuasion once so charm'd her ear; Serv'd but to summon prudence to her aid, To bear her from the overwhelming danger. His flashing eye, now phrenzy, now despair Alternate sway'd ; while she the fatal lines Display'd, (still speechless,) to his frantic gaze. Returning sense increas'd his bosom's grief; He saw the cause ; he saw the deep effect Immoveable; he rais'd his eyes to Heav'n, And smote his breast in silent agony. She fled, while he in motionless despair Pursued her with his eyes; the object lost, He sank desponding on his couch, and tears Appeas'd the sorrows of his anguish'd soul. D % 40 MATILDA. The ling'ring night appears an age of pain To sleepless misery; 'twas thus with him. His eyelids clos'd to represent alone That chilling frown, so awful in idea, So fatal in reality. In vain He mus'd; his manly bosom never yet Indulg'd suspicion; to deceit, himself Yet unaccustom'd — distant was the thought A Brother had, or could become a foe. Dreadful suspense! tho' conscience still enjoy 'd Serenity unblemish'd ; — frequent rays Of sweetest consolation calm'd his breast, Still shining forth with undiminish'd lustre. Nought now remained but flying from a scene, O'er which, in clouds of ne'er dissolving gloom, Reign'd prejudice in tranquil usurpation. The Cottage where an aged pair had dwelt Near nineteen years, (an adequate reward MATILDA. 41 For nineteen years of faithful servitude;) Now claimed his fix'd attention; scarcely ceas'd The friendly stream of tributary tears, Renew'd by each fresh list'ner to the tale How Allan died, and how sad Gwynnethmourn'd, Till death in pit, bore her to his side, When Owen's presence beam'd consoling joy, And tears or rapture gave the grateful welcome. The happy Peasantry their utmost aid Forced on their valued Landlord; 'twas the Cot In which his father spent his early years; 'Twas then the scene of bliss; themorning dawnU To bounteous acts, impartially dispensed Among his happy tenantry; the eve ienew'd the strains of rustic gratitude. The pious Owen ev'ry joy reviv'd; His gentle disposition sought for bliss In the contented smiles of those around D3 42 MATILDA. His ancient heritage : That bliss had seem'd His bosom's faithful guest, since first the Cot Received him it's hereditary Lord. ? ^ . ^i^t^iMm^ijj^^^^ MATILDA. 43 Were I crown'd the most imperial Monarch, Thereof most worthy : were I the fairest youth That ever made eye swerve ; had force and knowledge More than was ever man's ; I would not prize them Without her love ! Shakespere, The chamber where the good man meets his fate Is privileged beyond the common walk Of virtuous life, quite in the verge of Heaven. Fly ! ye profane ; or else, draw near with awe, For here resistless demonstration dwells. Here, tir'd dissimulation drops her mask, Here, real and apparent are the same ; You see the man ; you see his hold on Heaven : Heav'n waits not the last moments ; owns it's friends On this side death, and points them out to men; A lecture, silent, but of sov'reign power ; To vice, confusion; and, to virtue, peace * Young. CLASP'D to the breast of Owen was Monrose Whenmorning dawn'd; the welcome aid of sleep Had with it's soft refreshment lull'd their joys: d4 44 MATILDA. (In kind intent to make them rise again To threefold rapture;) Owen, on his couch, With hands and eyes and heart upraised to heav'n, Pour'd forth his grateful orisons. Monrose With equal fervour bent to his devotion. And now the wicket's unresisting spring Proclaimed the presence of the anxious pair, Whom love had early waken'd. Bertha first Approach'd with eager step to greet her friend With fond esteem most valued; blushing came Matilda, lovely creature! bright as morn, And pure as innocence ; her bosom fraught With mix'd emotion?, which (till now unknown) Awak'd her wonder, and themselves betray'cl In soft confusion on her glowing cheek. She looWd at Herbert, gaz'd upon Monrose, While yet (by duty's impulse sway'd alone) His eye ne'er wander'd from his aged charge; But Bertha's presence spoke Matilda near. MATILDA. 45 And, ere he rose, the glance of timid hope Darting around, wa# welcomed by a smile. The rapture of that smile, the ardent glow Of pure delight that swelPd each ample breast, Pleas'd to interpret fondly for itself The eyes soft diction 5 — ev'ry fond idea That rush'd at once in joyous anarchy To claim the heart's precedence, those have known Who once knew love; and to explain to those Whose breasts are strangers to that type of Heaven, Is to usurp with impotent attempt The pow'r of Nature in her choicest gift. They sat beside the couch. Owen. — The more important are our schemes The less should we to useless vacancy [in life, Resign the fleeting hours: No man can say, To morrow is my own;" and least of all Can those whom Heav'n has in it's goodness bless'cl With length of healthy years. O ! let me then 46 MATILDA. (While yet my wasting energies permit,) With height of joy as such a cause demands, Give to your hearts — those hearts where Herbert long Has reign'd, (for so your ceaseless love declares,) A youth deserving of your best esteem ; My brother's only son; source of that joy That lulls my soul to mild serenity, By Death's stern warning tho' about to leave Her temporary mansion. You, my friends, Have heard the sorrows of my early life; And as the tale was piteous, wept and sigh'd, In kind participation of my griefs — — Share then my joys — the tidings of delight Came by yon gentle Messenger. He died •Who slander'd me; repenting left the world,. And at that instant fled my injuries; Sham'd to impede his soul's ascending flight, Or dare to question it's pretence to Heaven. - — A fictious name has hitherto concealed My birth and fortunes; but the time is come MATILDA. 47 When poor disguise no longer can avail ; Short is my date, bat that, with joy so blest, My soul's ideas conceive no greater bliss On man awaits below. Herbert no more — I am again myself, again Monrose; I clasp once more a kinsman to my heart ; I see the champion of our sacred fame, And die content; the Name will never die."' Bertha.— Believe me, Herbert, (for by that dear name I must once more address thee;) 1 partake Thy transports with the ardor of a friend; So have you ever call'd me ; let me still Deserve that honor'd title — and accept The treasure you so gen'rously bestow; Monrose shall be my friend, in Bertha's heart That once was shar'd between my child and thee^ A place is open to the noble youth, Who can partake without decreasing yours ^ 48 MATILDA. Owen. — And thou Matilda, thou wilt want a A kind protector thro' the road of life ; [friend, Thou lov'st me, dearest girl ! those tears bespeak Thy ceaseless kind affection. To Monrose Be now thy love, thy tears may still be mine; No footstep shall profane the hallow'd turf Rais'd o'er my corpse, on which thy morning tears Descend like dew-drops from the springs of Heav'n. Monrose. — How can I speak my soul's felicity ! The quick emotions of tumultuous joy Oppress my thoughts, and mock the pow'r of language. (To Herbert) First let me bend to thee; and let the tear — The silent tear that speechless joy impels, Convey the meaning of my grateful heart. (To Bertha) Thou too hast call'd me friend ; within your heart MATILDA.. 49 Monrose enjoys a place; O blissful thought! My soul seems sporting in an earthly Heaven! And thou, Matilda; thou too, lovely maid! Wilt kindly deign to think upon Monrotee, Obedient to the will of him you love ; Of him whose gentle wishes guide your duty. Matilda. — Unus'd to clad my meaning in dis- Unskill'd indeed, and unencouraged here, [guise, I cannot speak but as my bosom feels, And therefore must be silent. Owen. O my child ! Heav'n guard thy innocence, and keep thy mind Ciad ever in its native purity! Accept my parting blessing, for I feel The struggle 'twixt mortality and death ; Soon the decisive conflict will be o'er; And prais'd be Heav'n, in that my latest hour I see with tranquil eve glide smoothly on, And my last sigh serenely takes it's flight, My Soul's conductor to the realms of bliss. 50 MATILDA. Each wish'd to answer ; but the feeble tone In which his parting accents died away, Awak'd in either apprehensive breast * Prophetic grief that words could ill convey, More suited to the eloquence of tears. They saw with painful silence, the decline Throughout exhausted Nature ; and approach'd With friendly efforts, and officious zeal, To quiet and relieve his weaken'd frame ; But ah! their gentle cares were vain; he smiled Once more, serenely gazing on them all; He sigh'd on all a blessing, and expired. Some days elaps'd ere ought but Owen's death Was Bertha's mournful theme: Monrose would Request the secret of Matilda's birth, [oft T3ut grief immix'd in Bertha's bosom sway'd O'er ev'ry other feeling of the heart. Near Berthas dwelling ran the winding stream trora whose refreshing aid the meads derived MATILDA. 51 Their beauty and support ; — upon its bank, (The native Garden-bound of Bertha's Cot,) An Arbor woven by Matilda's hand Of sweets perennial, stood a blooming shade, Dispensing grateful odours to the air ; Types of that pure and exquisite perfume That fan'd their tender buds with fragrant gales, As oft while busied in the sweet employ Unconsciously she sigh'd. The spot was sacred to pathetic themes, Unsullied by the loud intrusive sound Of giddy mirth. The dawn would oft behold The friendly three in pious wonder wrapt, Viewing the hand of excellence display'd In the new glories of the rising day ; While the expanding beauties of the roof Would breathe unceasing fragrance to the sense. And the gay feather'd cottagers above ell'd the blytbe strain of rural melody. 52 MATILDA. And here Monrose his earnest suit renewed, To hear from Bertha, all that now remain'd To crown his modest, his respectful wishes. He felt Matilda's charms, but could not bear To urge the theme of love, or let a smile Usurp dominion o'er the downcast eye, And rudely check woe's tributary tear. The gentle Bertha with complacent air Bow'd acquiescence ; pleas'd that he alone Should hear the artless narrative, which yet From purest motives to the lovely maid Had never been reveal'd. MATILDA. 53 Not for the world : why, man, she is mine own, And I as rich in having such a jewel As twenty Seas if all their sands were Pearl, The water Nectar, and the rocks pure Gold. Shakespere. My little darling ! dearer to me grown By all the tears thou'st caus'd — Oh ! strange to hear! Bought with a life still dearer than thy own, Thy cradle purchas'd with thy Mother's bier. Shaw, Say, are you sure his Mercy shall extend To ye so long a span ? alas ! ye sigh ; Make then, while yet ye may, your God your friend, And learn with equal ease to sleep or die. Mason. u NO high-wrought theme of infancy abus'd By Guardian tyranny, or swift display Of scenes unform'd by Nature's modest hand. — 54 MATILDA. No studied sentiment, no pompous phrase — No empty vain embellishment I need To decorate my tale. The early cares Of sweet Matilda's life arriv'd ere yet Her tender bosom could discern their weight: Her spirits play'd in infant innocence As on my lap the blooming Orphan lay, While on the piteous narrative I dwelt And mourn'd it's helpless and dependent state. The little Cherub smil'd with playful joy, Unconscious of it's woes. My brother woo'd Llewellyn's only daughter; He the Lord Of all the wealthy manor where we dwelt; He lov'd the beauteous Anna, and he swore (As oft, in friendly confidence he sigh'd The story of his love) her bosom's wealth Was all he sought, or wish'd to call his own. He courted not a Llewellyn's only child, " The pride and envy of surrounding crouds, MATILDA. 55 *' Rich in her prospects of encreasing wealth, 1 And in her charms unequalFd" — He ador'd a The lovely Anna, whose benignant heart 7 ' Gain'd her the willing homage of the poor; Pattern of modest excellence; alike Genrous and pitying at sorroics call; Rich in the treasures of her spotless mind" She view'dhim as he was, nor wish'dhim more: Noble in spirit, elegant in form ; Possess'd of ev'ry virtue that adorns The British Soldier. Ev'ry tender vow Or fond profession of regard he made, (As at the window by the river's brink, At twilight's kind approach, he daily sigh'd ) Would she by Zephyr to the youth return, (A Captive's only messenger) yet oft She fear'd the fickle and inconstant gale, The sacred pledge imperfectly convey'd. e£ 56 MATILDA. She knew her Edward's love ; she felt the chain A cruel father's tyranny had wrought, But Hope's the lamp that lights this vale of woe ; She knew the risk — to brave the rapid stream Was Death— to bondage: Life to LIBERTY. © How could a bosom thus by nature form'd Of softest mould, withstand the tempting lure? Harsh-tongued Llewellyn terribly array'd In unparental frowns — within whose heart Affection reign'd no more — the sway usurp'd Bv thoughts ungentle. — Edward faithful still, Watching with anxious and unceasing care Each blest occasion to confirm his vows So oft declar'd before in sighs, in looks, And strengthened now by deeds. Love gave the word — Love bore her to the stream ; Love taught the youth To sieze the beauteous prize ; Love chang'd her eyes MATILDA. 57 To brilliant gems, her flowing hair to gold — — Love bless'd her Edward with his heart's ambition. But easy tasks were these ; Love could not change The stern relentless Father ; mad with wrath, He swore his Anne, his disobedient child No more should call him parent; this he swore In the first impulse of ungovern'd rage, And yet uncancel'd is the oath ; tho' sure, If he whose brain by sad misfortune turned To raging madness, finds a just excuse For ev'ry action's error, more may he Who once submits to passion's raging sway Be counted lost to reason and to sense, Impel'd by an ungovernable pow'r That acts, resolves, and sins without a cause. TheTime-piece,priz'd as man's correctest friend, Needs no external beauty to display It's real excellence; the steady path e3 58 M ATI LB A. The hands in woncProus harmony pursue, Is marfc'd and guided by one central spring That regulates the whole. 'Tis thus in man ; That noblest work of all-creative pow'r Rests all its claim to earthly dignity On Godlike REASON, that directing spring That stamps his fixM Pre-eminence. To that Let him be faithful; for if once subdued, The mere resemblance of the man regains, A being unimportant to the world. Llewellyn, ever restless in his plans, Invented schemes to gratify revenge; But futile all ; for Anna's steady love Discover'd and betray'd each vile attempt That sought to harm her Edward. Till at length A Nephew anxious to revenge the cause, (Or eager to obtain the rich reward Llewellyn promis'd for success) appeared The champion of an injur'd Uncle's fame. His upstart insolence from Edward drew MATILDA. 5§ A friendly chiding, but repeated >vroxigs In terms most piercing to an honest heart, Provok'd his fate; ere thrice their swords had met, The wrathful Howell sank to rise no more. But Anna's cruel father's hate pursued The noble youth, and drove him from her arms. Yet ere he left the land, to me in charge He gave his gentle Anna. To my arms (His bosom's cheerless substitute,) he left The beauteous mourner ; lovelier in his eye Since that sweet form that first entranc'dhisheart, Displayed the blissful token of their love. But sad remembrance claims the ready sigh That mourns the sera of Matilda's birth. Alas ! sweet babe ! I welcom'd thee with tears; I bless'd my child, and yet could half regret It's dearly purchas'd life — The fatal hour That gave the shining treasure to the world, E 4 CO MATILDA. Destroyed the beauteous Mine from, whence it sprung. 'Tis eighteen years since first my lovely charge Bless'd my deserted arms — 'tis eighteen years (Long joyless years) since gentle Edward fled. The pious Owen shar'd my saddest hours, And shar'd the guidance of Matilda's mind; But often has the charming girl desir'd To know her hapless parents. Then have I Rehear'd the sorrows of a mother's life, And melancholy exit from the world ; But for her father, more I could not say, Than that some foreign shore as yet detain'd A bosom anxious for a daughter's love; I prais'd his noble heart, his faith sincere To his lost Anna, told his deeds of worth ; (For deeds unworthy thro' his path of life No record could my partial mem'ry trace) I won her duty, and the gentle aid MATILDA. 6l Of our late common friend confirm'd her heart In filial tenderness, and grateful love." A feeble shriek alarm'd the friendly pair, And now Matilda's voice in saddest sounds Met their astonish'd ears; they look'd surprize; But knew not how, or what to speak ; again The plaintive mourner cries; they quit the bower, Matilda views her sympathizing friends; She faintly screams, and rushes to their arms. By signs of deepest woe she drew them on, Panting her bosom, and her languid eye. Just rais'd to plead enfeebled nature's cause. Monrose with tend'rest care essay 'd to calm Her bosom's agitation — Vain attempt! She spurn'd his friendly zeal, and as inspir'd By more than mortal strength, she shriek'd aloud, " He's dead ! O save him ! save him from the wave ! Then wildly ran, and on the riv'let's brink 62 MATILDA, Threw her exhausted form. With trembling speed Monrose and Bertha followed to the stream, And shar'd the dreadful sight. Matilda lay Beside a palid corpse — the frequent drops That hurried from his hair, proclaimed how late His rescue from the overwhelming tide. Matijda lay insensibly alive, Her full blue eyes were #x'd in steady gaze Upon the senseless form. The tender arts Tri^e pity jeyer practically learns, Monrose and Bertha anxiously ,essay'd; And gleams of comfort parted to their souls, While as the manly youth his hand and breast With gentle pressure tried, the feeble beat Of his yet steady pulse, the frequent sigh With which his still warm bosom softly heav'd. Bespoke returning life. Matilda ^caught The signs of joy, her twpid geijt&e jreviv^d; She touch'd his breast, felt the convincing throb, MATILDA. (53 Her hands she clasp'd, and on tier knees to Heaven Pour'd forth her thanks in grateful ecstacy. " I sav'd him ! Gracious Heav'n ! 'twas I who saw " And caught his hand when struggling with the wave, i( O blessed thought! eternal praise to Heav'n That granted to Matilda's feeble arm " So glorious a deed !" "Matilda! ah! " And art thou then Matilda? do I live? (Exciaim'd the Stranger, whose uplifted eye Had thrown on her it's first imperfect rays) Or have I gain'd the mansions of the good, " And Anna's spirit welcomes me to bliss ? * Ah! no, my weaken'd faculties confess My wretched frail existence, and obtrude ? An urgent claim to Hum's kejoevolease." 64 MATILDA, t€ And is it thou?" said Bertha/' can it be u . Our long lost Edward?" Here Monrose was nigh, And rais'd the feeble victim to her arms, They join'd embrace, and blessed their gentle friend : Matilda caught the sound — her heart was full, She saw Monrose in fond attention rapt, She press'd his offer'd hand with grateful joy, And unreluctant sank upon his breast. #M, Jfc jt Jfc J£ «A£- »S& -& «?£• W W TP w tp t»* w "»p "«* When sleep its balmy and refreshing pow'r Had o'er the Cot in ample bounty shed — (Nature's kind handmaid ! that with ready zeal Waits withiher soothing aid her woes to cheer, Or lull each waking sorrow to repose) The spirits of the grateful inmates shone With all their wonted lustre; Edward then MATILDA. 65 Could dwell with pleasure on the ev'ning scene, And gaze with heartfelt transport on his child. He told, how ere he left his native land He heard the mournful tale, the death of her His faithful heart ador'd. His infant girl Safe in a sister's shelt'ring arms, and still His enemies relentless — urg'd him on ; He left the shore, and since had pass'd an age Of chequer'd but uninteresting scene, Blest as he was by Heav'n's protecting mercy. At length he had regain'd the happy shore Possess'd of competence to lull the cares That croud ambition's train.— His agent fled; The wretch had plausibly deceiv'd his friend, And in a brother's mask had plan'd a deed Bred in a daemon's bosom : Hope no more With flatt'ring prospect came to cheer his breast ; Wand'ring a prey to wild tumultuous thought, He mark'd alone the dictates of despair. 66 MATILBA. The sad confession tortur'd him anew; He own'd his rash intention, and implor'd In deep contrition for the guilty deed, Forgiveness of offended Providence. MATILDA. 67 At each kind glance their souls unite ; While love's soft sympathy imparts The tender transport of delight, That beats in undivided hearts. Cartwright. The truth you speak doth lack some gentleness, And time to speak it in; you rub the sore When you should find the plaister. Shakespere, So may the Queen of Love long duty bless, And all true lovers find the same success. Dryden* SOON was the scene of happiness renew'd j- Matilda feasted on a father's smiles, Monrose but liv'd in her's. The gentle youth Had mark'd each fond emotion of her soul Rising in varied rapture to announce A rescued Parent; and by fancy led, 63 MATILDA. Whose flattering pencil heigh ten'd ev'ry tint Of filial goodness, Virtues ever new Seem'd to declare perfection was their source. How could a man, whose susceptible heart With worth and honor held such sacred ties, Here rest unrnov'd? Her unsuspecting breast In all the charms of native innocence Lay open to his view; again he bless'd The day that led him to this seat of bliss — That haiPd Matilda, Empress of his heart. Nor was Matildas bosom sway'd alone Hy filial tenderness; the ardent glow Of youthful love that warm'd her tender frame, Rais'd in her pliant inexperienced heart A new and keen sensation; 'twas not pain, Yet something far two restless to deserve The name of Pleasure; 'twas beyond the pow'r Of her unstudied words to speak it's name; It felt a pleasing Grief, a painful Joy. MATILDA. G9 No formal speech by timid glance prefaced, And dictated by custom,, had declard Their bosom's pure affinity ; but looks Of fond affection, innocently bold, Had painted with unerring eloquence The heart's soft impulse — unresisted Love. Whene'er he spake, or sang some plaintive air, B} T Bertha oft requested- — or rehears'd Some sadly pleasing tale, from infant years By faithful mem'ry borne — Matilda's eye Watch'd ev'ry action of the mournful theme, And gave to woe a sympathizing tear; Which with her lovely hand she'd wipe away, Unwilling he should see the frequent gift; Lest fondly bent to spare the gentle pain, He ceas'd to please, intending to be kind. Ah ! vain attempt ! to 'scape a Lover's eye That reads with mildly penetrating glance The gen'rous impulse of a feeling heart, p 70 MATILDA. (Why check the tear? ah ! why repress the sigh ? The noblest tributes of a thankful soul — Best praise and purest gratitude to Heaven. 'Tis not, to weep at Sorrow, that betrays (As fools aver) a weakness of the mind; To feel a brother's woe, to calm or share His sorrow's burthen, is Man's duty here; At humble distance 'tis to copy Heaven; — Tis good to pity; Godlike to protect. Let nature be our study ; daily rise In silent lessons to the heart of man Examples of reciprocal support, Of mutual need, and universal love. Around the Oak that rears it's lofty head In splendid Majesty, the Ivy clings; The shrub ne'er pilfers from his store of fame. Or claims that homage due alone to him ; The forest Monarch yielding its support, Thus best preserves its native dignity.) MATILDA. 71 Nor pass'd unseen their loves. — Monrose appear'd In Edward's eves bat as his vouns;er self. He saw him oft, while she attentive sat With downcast eye, glance from the half read And, while with modest rapture fondly gazing, Take ample payment for the gentle task. Such purity of love, such mild respect peam'd from his man! y eye — lie could not check The youthful fire — he thought of Anne — and sigh'd. Tiras eve, when as along the vale they stray 'd, Tasting the cool refreshment of the breeze, That borrow'd sweetness from each fragrant plant, And scatter'd mingled perfumes as it play'd — A venerable form, who on his staff In musing posture lean'd, at distance stood. His tatter'd garb they could discern afar, And care-worn countenance; the outward skew f2 72 MATILDA. Of meagre wretchedness. — Soft Charity Had lent their willing steps increasing speed, When with an unconceiv'd and sudden haste, He glane'd an angry look, and midst the trees The gloomy entrance to a trackless dell, Escap'd from sight. His dark revengeful brow, By Bertha only seen — was seen alone; And pass'd unnoticed — follow'd by the rest With looks of kindest pity and regret. €€ Poor houseless wretch !" cried Bertha, " what could lead c - Thy wand'ring step to this unfriendly soil? " Victim of Poverty! here dwells no gain; H No riches here are scatter'd by the gay ; i€ Hope for the future is our chief support, " And prayers and pity all we have to give." " Alas! my gentle friend!" Monrose rejoin'd, " Choice does not guide the Beggar on his way; €€ In London oft, as here, a bitter trade MATILDA. 7:> F For scanty earnings on a thorny road, a Necessity's relentless gripe impels. u Ask why the Ballad-Singer, (hapless wretch !) " Pours fort'h a broken and discordant sound, n The piercing plaint of each distorted nerve, (i And calls it c Lullaby !' — ask why that air w Breath'd in soft accents from the vocal pipe u STORACE tunes, enchants the list'ning ear u With sweetest strains of thrilling harmony, — u Pamper'd with choicest luxuries — indulg'd u With all that fond invention can suggest, *" To render sweeter what was ever sweet, u Well may the tones be lofty; while the lay " Heav'd from the starving organs of the poor, " Proclaims the bitter choice — " No song, no Supper." Proceeding on in circular advance, They now the covert's opposite extreme f 3 MATILDA. Drew near, in earnest converse still engaged; Each eye intent, whosever was the theme, Nor thought of ouirht but harm on v and love, Till darker objects burst upon the view. Close to the thicket stood the aged wretch, Bent as before; and from his haggard eyes Flash'd looks of anger — heighten'd by the gloom Of settled frowns, that furrow'd o'er his brow. He gaz'd awhile, then slowly wander'd on, Oft glancing, as reluctantly he moved, A look expressive of a wish to stay; A look that spoke the fury of revenge, Mingled with keenest anguish of the soul. Monrose was anxious to remain alone, And hear the beggar's suit. — Matilda sigh'd, And Bertha clasp'd her hand — and both retired* But Edward felt an int'rest in the tale, And beg'd the Stranger might alone to him Unfold his need. — Monrose submission bow'd, Kindly withdrew, and sought Matilda's path. MATILDA. 7-> Edward approach'd ; the Stranger met bis step Unaw'd; nor seem'd unwilling to be seen. But rais'd his head, and sliew'd a manly front; Furrow'd his brows and cheeks, and half extinct That animating fire that his eye So late iilum'd, as if by sickness dim'd, Or age's Sovereignty usurp'd by Woe. 4€ What need you, Stranger," Edward mildly " That still alone in this deserted vale, [said, u You wander thus, nor quit its scanty bounds ?" " My need is great;" with loud and angry tone " The Stranger answer'd ; " but to hearts like u Tasting continued pleasure, revelling [yours, " In undisturb'd unmix'd felicity, " My woes in vain appeal: Suffice it then, €S Mirth's thoughtless worshipper ! that Peace enthrones u Your breast, and Anarchy oppresses mine/' f4 MATILDA. iC How apt are men who feel some inward grief " Prey with unceasing anguish on the mind, " To start from Reason's sacred consolation; " Tarn from a soothing friend, or wildly laugh " At gentle admonition — -and exclaim, i( Their lot of all mankind is most accurst, " And pale misfortune o'er their dcstinYi head " Has fix'dj immoveable, her gloomy throne! " 'Tis Heav'ns alone to read my inmost soul; H There, still the wound inflicted long by woe u Pleads my sad cause,and pleads alonetoHeaven." " And why then mask with vacant airy smiles " Thy bosom's woes? why hide thy real cares, " Vain Hypocrite! to lure unthinking crouds u To «r]ut the breed of fools r" o " Unkindly said ! u When Man would rail at Heav'ns supreme decrees, ** Or thinks he suffers more than mortal strength c< Can firmly bear — let him but look around; MATILDA. u Let bis enquiring eye survey the lot u Of thousands fix'd or scattered in his path, " And by comparison secure con Tent. " I have known sorrow, but T thank ray God u My efforts of Submission to his will u Have met the blessing of his strengthening grace ; u Sorrow's the lot of man; the sad bequest * " Of our first parents to their future seed; i* The fatal legacy extends to all, " But all not equal sharers: Happy those! u Who then can soothe another's wretchedness, a And With a manly spirit bear their own ! " This thought represses each complaining sigh ; " Were all mankind to raise the plaintive strain. " Of gen'ral woe proportion'd to their griefs, ** My voice would never make its feeble way u Amid the mournful chorus." H Cease dissembler ? u Or if not so, insensible to shame; * Corrupt thy nature; steel'd against the charms 78 MATILDA. u Of gen'rous sympathy, unchanging love, " And ev'ry soft affection of the heart. " Knows' t thou Llewellyn?" in a voice of rage The Stranger added, and his tatter'd garb Tore from his aged limbs; beneath there shone His regal cloak, concealing ill the blades Of equal swords, in length and fatal worth. " Know'st thou Llewellyn?" thunder'd he again, •{Loud as the power of approaching age His failing voice and shaking frame allow'd.) u Llewellyn, sinking to the threat'ning gloom « Of endless woe, of comfortless despair; « In vain I think, reflection drives me mad, « My voice — complaint — my feelings — agony. « O thou hast plunder'd me ! my dearest wealth " Hast thou most subtly stolen; 'twas my girl! " My only darling ! Ah ! my heart's on fire — " Give me my Anna — O ! restore my child, " Or let her father follow to her grave. " But no! 'tis retribution nerves my arm; « Grantme, kind Heav'n! a parent's just revenge; MATILDA. 7!) " To lav my daughter's murd'rer at my feet. n Then will I boast — awhile forget my child, u And praise the valiant age-enfeebled arm " That stretch 'd thee by me. — Use me as a man, u Thou can'st not wrong me more — thou'st siain my child; u Curses upon thee! deeds shall speak the rest." His sword he siez'd, and aim'd a desp'rate pass. But Edward's skill receiv'd the black attempt Unhurt; and turn'd the weapon from his breast* Llewellyn rav'd, and madly bent on death, Tried ev'ry effort to obtain his end ; But Edward stood successful in defence, And coolly brave — Like some majestic flow'r, Bending beneath the rain's incessant stream With prudent mildness; till the torrent eeas'd, Proudly it rises, rears it's lofty head In sparkling brilliancy above its fellows, Seems to contemn the weakness of it's foe, And borrows from it's wreck, increasing lustre. But ah! Llewellyn's bosom still retain'd 80 MATILDA. The burning glow of unallay'd revenge; He rous'd his utmost strength, and rais'd his sword Strait to his rival's heart — the well-aim'd steel He push'd with feeble fury, but Monrose Burst at the instant on his nerveless arm, And snatch'd the fatal weapon from his grasp, Llewellyn baffled in his only hope, His hasty wish to gratify revenge, And spent the scanty remnant of his strength — Grief vanquished rage, frowns gave the way to And passion melted to the strains of woe. [tears, " O give me back my girl ! let these old eyes u Close to their last and everlasting night, u Beneath her duteous hand. — 'Twas thou alone " Seduc'd her from me, bore away my bliss, <( The sole delight of my declining years. €€ In her, bereft of all my soul ador'd, " Of all that sooth'd the peevishness of age, €€ Or cheer'd me when a gloomy thought disturbed MATILDA. 81 " My mind's serenity — Can'st wonder now u My passions wander, and usurp a sway u That rends my heart with painful anarchy:" u And have not I too lost my souFs delight;*' Cried Edward, calmly, and with pitying smile ; " Did not I love my Anna? fondly doat €C On ev'ry soft perfection that adorn'd " Her charming form, or match less gentle nature? €i Forbear to wound me thus — believe my tears " Fly from that mighty source whence springs thy own; ** When mem'ry summons, NATURE will obey.*' A pause of silent grief reliev'd their hearts, And sighs of deepest anguish checked their speech. Tears fiow'd no more — again Llewellyn rais'd His rayless eyes — again on Edward gaz'd With stern reluctance, and again he sigh'd In frantic terms the sorrows of his soul. 82 MATILDA. " O Anna ! gone ! my daughter ! gone for ever ! " And must thy aged Parent weep in vain " Thy everlasting absence? — fled my joys — " Fled the sweet solace of my painful hours: " Fled ev'ry hope! and fled — alas! — for ever. " — For ever! — no. — O! welcome to my soul, " Thou cheering ray! her absence will not be " Eternal — far beyond the sight of man, 4€ As far beyond, as there the bliss exceeds a Man's best attainments here — my child will greet " Once more her doating father. — There again " Shall we in rapture meet — to part no more. " Blest spirit of my injur'd child ! behold " Thy wretched parent: — O ! forgive thy wrongs, u And sign my pardon with a Cherub's smile; a A smile to call me from a world of woe, — " To welcome me to Paradise and thee." Matilda met his view — by Bertha led; With anxious terror in the Matron's eyes, MATILDA. While gratitude, to see her father safe, And that Monrose had chang'd the fatal scene, Illum'd the lovely maid's. t€ All-gracious Heaven ! i€ Speak — lovely vision! — tell me, do I liver" Llewellyn feebly cried, and sank between His kind supporters — while from side to side Turned his enquiring e} T es. — "Say — is'tmy child: It has her look. — My Anna used to smile i€ On her fond father. — Lead me to her arms; i " Let me embrace once more my darling girl. " Heav'ns blessings on thee, love!" — He tried But sank exhausted on Monrose's arm. [to rise, " Give ine my Anna — let me kiss my child; " Hold her not from me — is she not my own:" Matilda flew to press his aged cheek, Edward had placed her lovely hand in his; Bertha in silence gaz'd — Monrose advanced — He look'd with rapture on the pious act Of his belor d Matilda— Edward's then 84 MATILDA. His eye benignly met — and thus he dar'd Interpret fondly all it's gen'rous meaning, While on Llewellyn's hand he gently hung, And beg'd his blessing to complete his bliss. "Mine is the charming maid ! Matilda's mine ! u Thy Anna's lovely offspring is to me " As Anna was to Edward. — Edward smiles — i( He joins our hands, he gives her to my heart: C( Hence light delusive joys — Mcnrose is bless'd. Llewellyn slowly rais'd his languid eye; " Bless ye !" he faintly cried, u my all is your's— " I die content — my daughter lives again; " In yon bright maid my Anna lives — she lives u To close Llewellyn's eyes — My prayers reward " The duteous act — my grateful praisetoHeaven !' FINIS. I®&% Ls*\ •.■■■ . '.*?* • i • .• Deacidified using the Bookkeeper process. Neutralizing agent: Magnesium Oxide Treatment Date: March 2009 PreservationTechnologies A WORLD LEAPFR IN HP! 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