THE HERMIT. BALLAD. I. "TURN, gentle Hermit of the dale, For here forlorn and lost 1 tread, "With fainting steps and slow; "Where wilds, immeasurably spread, "Seem length'ning as I go." III. "Forbear, my son," the Hermit cries, "Here IV. "Here to the houseless child of want My door is open still; "And though my portion is but scant, "I give it with good will. V. "Then turn to-night, and freely share "Whate'er my cell bestows; My rushy couch and frugal fare, 66 My blessing and repose. VI. "No flocks that range the valley free, To slaughter I condemn; Taught by that Power that pities me, "I learn to pity them: VII. "But from the mountain's grassy side "A guiltless feast I bring; "A scrip with herbs and fruits supply'd, "And water from the spring. VIII. "Then, pilgrim, turn, thy cares forego; "Nor wants that little long." Soft IX. Soft as the dew from Heav'n descends, His gentle accents fell: The modest stranger lowly bends. And follows to the cell. X. Far in a wilderness obscure The lonely mansion lay, XI. No stores beneath its humble thatch Requir'd a master's care; The wicket, op'ning with a latch, XII. And now, when busy crowds retire XIII. And spread his vegetable store, And skill'd in legendary lore The ling'ring hours beguil'd. Around |