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CIHM/ICMH 
 
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Y^ 
 
 WMINIOH DEY, 
 
 CERECmCUS, 
 
 MELCOLM END MERGERET. 
 
 POEMS, 
 
 3Y 
 
 THE REV. /ENEAS McDONELL DAWSON, 
 
 L. L. D. ; P. R. S. 
 
 OTTAWA: 
 
 C. W. Mitchell, Printer, Free PRses Office, Elgin Street. 
 
 1886 
 
•t 
 
 t 
 
 .Hi:E^I^ A.TTjTyc. 
 
 " Faction " for " Fiction." Last line of Preface. 
 
■^ 
 
 PREFACE. 
 
 However inconsiderable a work may be, it is 
 customary to honor it with a word of preface. 
 
 Let it be observed, therefore, that there is no 
 exaggeration in the high qualities ascribed in the 
 following* lines, to Caractacns, the heroic, but ill- 
 fated defender of British liberty. 
 
 In " Malcolm and Margaret " it is stated, with- 
 out violence to history, that, according to popular 
 belief, the usurping King, Macbeth, possessed a 
 charmed life. «hakspeare, in his admirable tragedy 
 of "Macbeth," has so familarized us with this 
 idea, that what is said of it in the Poem, will not 
 have the appearance ol mere f/ction. 
 
The portrayal of a King and Queen of Scotland, 
 in the eleventh century, as very noble and exalted 
 characters, will be no surprise to those who have 
 studied the history of Celtic Malcolm and his 
 Saxon consort. 
 
 A re-print of the Ode for Dominion Day, will 
 not, it is hoped, prove unacceptable, considering 
 that it was so well received when first published, 
 some years ago, 
 
 Ottawa, 1886. 
 
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 ') G^ ^t-^-' 
 
 >^i^* 
 
 FOR 
 
 DOMINION DAY. 
 
 *? 
 
 The Genius of Canada mourning in her solitary haunt» 
 on the banks of the Ottawa. Consolation is offered to her. 
 A council of chiefs is called from which the greatest results. 
 are anticipated. But evil passions interfere ; factions and 
 parties arise. The white man comes. The wigwams of the 
 Aborigenes are seen near his dwellings. This picture of 
 peace comforts the guardian spirit. She experiences still 
 greater joy on beholding the prosperity of the country, the 
 harmony of its races, and its more recent developments. 
 
T 
 
 2 
 
 O saddest lot ! 
 In lonely grot, 
 Bound by unliolj s[>pi\] 
 Cheerless ever todwel] ! 
 
 Thou mournest, hapless sprite, 
 
 Wrapped in thy misty pall. 
 
 Nought can thy soul delight 
 
 Lone by the melancholy waterfall. 
 
 The pines around, 
 
 The weeping skies, 
 
 The dull cold swampy ground 
 
 And caverns dark e*er greet thine eyes. 
 
 The moanicg wind and hissing wave, 
 
 Of spectres dread the hoUow groans 
 
 That echo as o'er nature's grave. 
 
 Of Goblins fell the dismal tones, 
 
 The whirling demon-pool that yawns [*] 
 
 7 
 
 f 
 
 (*) A fearful whirlpool near the Chaudiere falls, not inappropriately 
 denominated the " Devil's Hole," into which a considerable portion of 
 the waters of the Ottawa are seen to rush without any visible outlet. 
 
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 Aye thirsting, panting for its prey, — 
 That Stygian tide o'er which ne'er dawns 
 The cheering light of rising day : — 
 What awful sounds thine ears assail, 
 O, genius of the forest land ! 
 No marvel if thy solemn wail 
 Thine Ottawa's echoes all command I 
 Yet cheer thee, solitary Sprite ! 
 An aged Chief, in council sage. 
 Thine eyes shall see. Ere dawning light, 
 Each warrior shall his care engage 
 O'er hardiest braves that long has borne, 
 In forests wild, unquestioned sway, 
 From Manitoulin's woods unshorn, 
 To billows of the *' Salt Lake " spray. 
 Ah ! hope not that the weary sprite 
 In sagest council shall delight, 
 Lo ! promptly round the Chieftain strong, 
 Crowd counsellors, a motley throng. 
 Each passion o'ei- his dauntless soul, 
 
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 Claims for itself unique contro', 
 First envy seeks her empire to secure, 
 " Divide and Rule," have sages Raid, 
 This maxim envy plies — Ler task is sure, 
 Dissension o'er the wigwam's spread. 
 
 Ambition next her towering head uprears. 
 Mad faction tears the grave Divan; 
 Considerate counsel there no more appears, 
 Each growling party for its man. 
 
 In anger frowns the Chief, from blood shot eyes 
 Fierce lightning's dart ; — the throng recoils ; 
 But wrathful soou, its anger's torrents rise ; 
 The Council all with fury boils. 
 
 ** .Revenge ! revenge ! the haughty Chieftains cry ; 
 " Revenge ! a.bove the torrent's roar, 
 They louder yell ; 'tis watchword and reply ; 
 ** Revenge ! " Revpr»ge ! " o'er Ottawa's shore. 
 
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 O ! Peri sprite! can nought the tempest still ? 
 
 Bid music's sound 
 
 Aloud resound ! 
 
 It conquere Saul 
 
 And soothed his soul 
 
 When flew the dart 
 In fury to the shepherd's heart. 
 
 Soft pity to infuse, 
 
 Invoke the tuneful muse. 
 The Persian victor owned its power; 
 To sorrow moved, his fury o'er, 
 Stern fortune's fitful mood he mourned, 
 His burning ras^e to sighs he turned, 
 And grieving o'er man's ills below, 
 The gushing tears began to flow. 
 
 Sing Peri, sing 
 Sweet peace and hope and mercy's power. 
 
 Bid forests ring, 
 And o'er the boiling wave. 
 
!!' 
 
 
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 Diffuse tke soothing strain ; 
 The sonp; of hope shall save, 
 When powerless aU beside 
 To stem wild passion's tide. 
 
 O, for Tirpjtheus' strain ! 
 
 Or thine, Cecilia divine ! 
 
 In holiest rapture's vein, 
 
 In harmony sublime, 
 
 Let both combine, 
 
 Tlie spheres conjoin, 
 
 As echo to the cascade's chime 
 
 Thy tones, divinest maid, 
 
 That ''drew an angel down." 
 Or thine, upon the sounding lyre that made 
 Those master lays that mortals bore 
 
 In ecstacy to Heaven ! 
 
 In songs all new be given 
 
 Oh hill and plain, 
 
 Hope's cheering strain ! 
 
 ^ 
 
 
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{ 
 
 
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 Lo, in ecstatic measures, 
 
 Tells she of promised pleasures ! 
 
 Touched by her magic hand, the chords resound ; 
 Louder and louder still she pours along 
 Her sweetest notes ; the caverns echo round ; 
 The charmed dryads, warble to the song ; 
 Earth's loveliest scenes the entrancing music hail, 
 And vocal are the woods, the hills, the vale. 
 Now, as her softest, holiest themes she chose. 
 Were heard responsive, murmuring at each close, 
 Celestial voices round the listening shore. 
 "Let joy prevail ! be hate and war no more." 
 The choral Naiads sang. The red man smiled, 
 His soul with pleasure thrilled, and he threw down 
 His gory tomahawk ! No more defiled 
 Shall be his hand to seek in blood the victor crown. 
 
 Seeks choice delight 
 A traveller wight. 
 
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 From distant clime 
 Earnest he roams 
 Charmed with the chime 
 Of the rushing tide that foams 
 Through varied scenes and new. 
 By Ottawa's shelving shore, 
 Bursts on his gladdened view, 
 Men's happiest homes before, 
 The wigwam's curling smoke, 
 What rapture to his soul the scene ! 
 Is this the conquered red man's yoke 
 Pree as the winds to roam through forests groen ? 
 
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 'Tis even so. And thus 'twill ever be 
 So long as o'er the heaving Ocean wave, 
 Britannia's flag shall bravely float and free. 
 The favored Indian prays : **Our Mother save " 
 'l^eath his roof of the sweetest summer leaves, 
 VA'ith a heart as leal as the bravest c'lief 
 
 
That ever bore a Briton's sword ; nor grieves 
 
 O'er his altered lot, aye light, as the leaf 
 
 His bounding step, as he fearlessly roams 
 
 In his native woods, 'mid the white men's homes. 
 
 I 
 
 Well may thy Genius, Canada, rejoice, 
 
 Peace like to thine ne'er yet to men was known, 
 
 Still flows thy fortune's tide, thy noblest choice 
 
 Fair freedom still ; nor freedom's giffc alone, 
 
 Fired not by lust of conquest — pride of power, 
 
 Thy people bold with philanthropic will. 
 
 Their enterprise extend the world out o'er, 
 
 Right glad to mitigate the sum of ill. 
 
 The Nations meet thee with an equal soul ; 
 
 Their richest trade ships press around thy shores, 
 
 And far beyond the raging main's control. 
 
 The wealth of worlds out-pour in boundless stores, 
 
 " 0, happiest lot !" the exultant Peri cries, 
 
 " Lo! more than e'er I dreamer!, I now behold; 
 
10 
 
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 O, blest the most of all beneath the skies 1 
 Peace, Freedom yours, and happiness untold ! 
 O ! to the latcct hour of changeful time 
 May gracious Heaven this era bright prolong ! " 
 So prays the red man, too, unstained by crime ; 
 Ardent he prays, and thankful pours the song. 
 
 " Such tranquil days Gods only can bestow. 
 Thanks ever to the Christian's Manitou ! 
 Benign Victoria's rule dispels all fears, 
 Be ours this happiness to latest years ! 
 The Constitution Free our firmest stay, 
 Late may our Mother Great to realms of day 
 Honored return ; above her spirit flown. 
 Be Freedom, Peace and Plenty still our own, 
 Britannia's guardian mantle o'er us thrown !'' 
 
 Ill: 
 
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 CARACTACUS, 
 
 T 
 
 iiOTRSeC JCIB®. 
 
 Read be/ore the Royal Society at the annual meeting, held at Ottaiva, on May 
 25th, 1886, by the Rev. JEneas McDonell Dawson, L.L.D., F.R.S, 
 
 In vain, proud Eome, to reach thy full blown pride, 
 Thou wad'st through blood. Now turned thy 
 
 fortune's tide. 
 Thine abject slave, Britannia no more, 
 Eides o'er the waves, defiant of thy power. 
 Undaunted valor once could not avail 
 The British host to save ; thine to prevail, 
 And trample down the bravest of the brave. 
 Caractacus ! thy strength and valor gave 
 To Eoman might a check — most foul disgrace ; 
 Yet fate forbade her glory to efface. 
 'Twas Eome's great destiny, the world all o'er, 
 To flaunt the banner of her withering power. 
 Oh ! for the heroes of ihe age to come ! 
 Alfred ! Coeur de Lion ! Strike for your home ! — 
 
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 Your Briton's home ! For one heroic hour, 
 Your arms of might extend — your conquering 
 
 power ! 
 Not yet, alas ! not yet is given to wave 
 Your warrior sword, omnipotent to save. 
 Oh ! Liberty ! thy triumph ceased a while, 
 And hope, thy sister, ceased with thee to smile, 
 When patriot arms, sad fate ! availed no more 
 From hostile blows to guard the British shore. 
 For nine long years the hero toils in vain 
 The valorous host of Eome to rend in twain. 
 Now on the event of battle hangs the fate 
 That long hath threat'ning lowered o'er Britain's 
 
 State. 
 Firm posted on a rugged mountain's side, 
 The British force, undaunted, will abide 
 The shock of war. Advance the Roman powers, 
 Fast on their serried ranks destruction showers, 
 The well skilled archer. Hand to hand the strife, 
 Nor casque nor breast-plate guards the Briton's life;* 
 Hence bucklered Romans conquer in the fray, 
 
 ♦ Apnd quos nulla loricarum galearumve tegmina.— Tacitus. 
 
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13 
 
 So changed the fortune of thrit fateful day. 
 Now on the Northern wave triumx^hant ride 
 Rome's galley's, joying, as they gaily glide. 
 O'er fallen Brftannia's glory, war's rich spoils 
 Their precious load fruit of the soldiers' toils. 
 In the grand ship where proudly kept hij state 
 The high Proconsul, 'twas no less the fate 
 Of Britain's hero o'er the placid wave 
 To ride secure. This meet occasion gave 
 For varied converse. Much the talk of Rome ; 
 Nor less was said of the lost Briton's home. 
 
 OSTORIUS 
 Ostorius thus : " Cease, Briton, to deplore 
 Your altered lot, that you behold no more 
 The vanquished land whose glory was your pride ; 
 'Neath brighter stars your fortune to abide. 
 Fate, not our arms the final victory gave, 
 "When all your art, your much loved land to save, 
 And matchless valor failed. By Grods alone. 
 The Grods of hapi)y Eome, our work was done. 
 
 CAEACTACUS. 
 " Tell me not of Gods," the wise hero says. 
 
14 
 
 ^ I 
 
 *' To one alone the British nation prays ; 
 
 His will it was that we should conquered fall, 
 
 Our doom accept, and be the Eomans' thrall." 
 
 OSTORIUS. 
 
 *' Deem not your lot as captive slave to be, 
 
 A citizen of Rome your destiny. 
 
 Well known to Eomans all your warlike name- 
 
 In recognition of your lofty fame. 
 
 Senate, emperor and people will decree 
 
 Best honors of the State with liberty ; 
 
 And you'll rejoice 'neath happier skies to stay, 
 
 With glory crowned, far from your land away," 
 
 CAEACTACUS. 
 *' Naught 'o, Eoman ! can my sad loss repair. 
 Eome's hospitality, meanwhile, I'll share 
 W ith grateful mind. Life freely you bestow 
 And liberty, and thus to captives show 
 How Eome's magnanimous and can attract 
 To Eome's alliance more than can exact 
 The force of arms. Hence, though rude war you'll 
 wage, 
 
15 
 
 The British all in friendship you'll engage." 
 
 OSTORIUS. 
 " Will grow the arts of peace ; the new born day, 
 Improvement's day, will copiously repay 
 For all you've lost. With the sage Roman power, 
 Rome's work and skill, each new day, more and 
 more. 
 
 Will rapid spread, and, prosperous, your clime 
 Will far surpass the annals of all time." 
 
 CARACTACUS. 
 *• To real improvement cordial I agree, 
 The fruitful source of greatness yet to be. 
 In arms and discipline you far excel. 
 Armour is yours, in war, that serves you well. 
 Such arts and weapons in each British home, 
 Britannia might vie with mighty Rome. 
 Your G-ods we envy not, nor social ways. 
 Your Roman life impiety betrays, 
 Your num'rous Deities we ne'er can own. 
 The simple Briton bows to Qod alone, 
 ^gypt your jest, Gods in whose gardens grow! 
 
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 Where'er a germ of life this earth can show, 
 
 As iEg-ypt deems, divinity there dwells, 
 
 More strange the myriad crowd that endless swells 
 
 The Horn an heaven. Like noxious vermin swarm 
 
 Rome's Deities ; lost virtue hath no charm ; 
 
 E-eigns vice triumphant, crime the Roman's pride 
 
 His glory all that mortals seek to hide. 
 
 Some war affect, its glory basely stain 
 
 With cruel deeds, and riot o'er the slain. 
 
 In days of peace your aims less noble still, 
 
 G-ross joys of sense your hours of leisure fill. 
 
 Slaves, in abject mood, to fell tyrant power 
 
 You bend the supple knee, and, willing, cower 
 
 Such crooked ways you dare refinement name, 
 
 Whilst others deem you glory in your shame. 
 
 Your social system is a slavish state ; 
 
 The like to us would be a direful fate. 
 
 Liberty our glory, free rule our pride. 
 
 Home's slavishness we never could abide. 
 
 The noblest of your nobles is a slave. 
 
 Abject, indeed, though bravest of the brave. 
 
 What though Patrician he be proudly named, 
 
17 
 
 And conqueror in fields of war wide famed, 
 
 Both life and liberty are at the feet 
 
 Of tyrant power ; 'tis justice only meet 
 
 The helpless pillars of despotic sway, 
 
 Should moulder, thus, their wretched lives away. 
 
 The slave pest in each homestead ever dwells ; 
 
 The writhing slave in vain the master quells.' 
 
 Ne'er peace can be, where, robbed of all that's dear. 
 
 Crushed mortals must a rigid tyrant fear. 
 
 Pardon, great Roman, if so foul a blot 
 
 With you to share, it never be our lot." 
 
 OSTOEIUS. 
 " Your views of social life I'll not gainsay ; 
 Yet behoves it we hold sovereign sway 
 Our homes within. Our Qods have shewn their 
 power 
 
 In many a field, and still favours shower 
 
 On happy Eome ; our noblest duty we conceive, 
 
 The Gods to honor, in their power believe." 
 
 CARACTACUS. 
 '*This worship superstition rank we deem, 
 
i 
 
 18 
 
 Although to you so giLiid it ever seem. 
 
 To us are odious even the Koman's games, 
 
 Beasts of the forest studiously he tames, 
 
 That in the arena he behold them fight, 
 
 Each other tear, their pain the crowd's delight. 
 
 ^Tis passing strange that pleasure should afford 
 
 Such scenes of wild beast strife, such mad discord 
 
 Of cruel mind the people we must deem, 
 
 "Who see with joy the fatal gory stream, 
 
 As maddened tigers furiously rush. 
 
 Or elephants, their forest foes to crush. 
 
 Nor yet suffice such fights the thirst for blood 
 
 In Eome to quench ; must flow a richer flood. 
 
 Such free bestow the gladiator shows ; 
 
 A victim, felled by fratricidal blows. 
 
 There falls the warrior, born for honor's field. 
 
 His destiny the country's fame to shield. 
 
 To certain death each swordsman is consigned, 
 
 "Whilst o'er his ruin thrills the cruel mind 
 
 With mad delight ; no hope to soothe his fate, 
 
 Despairing dies each victim of the State. 
 
 To crown his woe, a slave, in abject mood, 
 
i 
 
 19 
 
 To the hard tyrant thirsting for his blood, 
 He bo\\ i obsequious ; ere in death laid low, 
 Caesar, he hails, and waits the fateful blow. 
 Such ways the free-born British mind appall, 
 Romans, meanwhile, civilization call 
 This barbarous social state, from which recoils 
 Humanity. Wonder not warlike toils 
 We've gladly met, the mighty power to stay, 
 Such ills could bring, our liberty away." 
 
 OSTORIUS. 
 
 *' Fear not, much though in warrior Rome avail 
 Our favorite games, well known they'll not prevail 
 In British land. War, ever, we must wage 
 Our power to hold ; hence must our youth engage 
 In combats fierce, lest in luxurious ease 
 Our warriors sleep and war no more shall please. 
 What though wild beasts in the arena strive ; 
 Strive they in forest long as they're alive ; 
 Tiieir nature such ; no wrong, we must conceive, 
 When fighting for our pleasure, they receive. 
 You blame the gladiators' martial show, 
 
jimm 
 
 20 
 
 When death ensues at every swordsman's blow. 
 
 No ill in this can gladiators see, 
 
 Battle and death the soldier's destiny. 
 
 Such spectacles familiarize with strife, 
 
 And trained are Roman youth to warlike life." 
 
 CAEACTACUS. 
 
 *' Too great the cost your empire to maintain ; 
 You'd rather die, than cease o'er earth to reign. 
 No such ambition ours ; on British soil 
 In peace to live, improve, with constant toil. 
 Our fertile fields, our thriving trade expand ; 
 TLis the true glory of the British land. 
 Eome, born for war, its lot I'll not gainsay ; 
 But, why, on earth, such cruel narrow way, 
 That E-ome no generous tolerance can show 
 To those who cannot, superstitious, bow 
 To all the fabled Deities that crowd 
 The Roman heaven. Such nation brings a cloud 
 Of Grods all new, your gates are open thrown. 
 And superstitious worship promptly shown. 
 Some people, reasoning more, one God supreme 
 
 1^. 
 
I 
 
 21 
 
 Make hold to honor ; too suhlime the theme ; 
 
 The grand Philosophy you treat with scorn, 
 
 As if mankind your Grods to own were born. 
 
 Hence Jacob's race in dire contempt you hold. 
 
 And cruel persecute ; thus we behold 
 
 Efforts 'gainst reason made, but made in vain ; 
 
 Its still small v^oice gently prevades, amain, 
 
 The circling world ; powerful it is and strong, 
 
 Conquering as the great ages roll along. 
 
 What gain you, warring on Israel's race ? 
 
 You idly strive to check its prosperous pace, 
 
 It flourishes throughout the State of Rome, 
 
 There claiming, as of right, its proper home. 
 
 Britannia's boast, a purer worship ours. 
 
 Than rites that jealous guard the Eoman powers. 
 
 To our convictions true, we fear not change ; 
 
 Let G-od be worshipped, rites, however strange, 
 
 We tolerate ; the Christian we allow, 
 
 And dread not other sects that 'midst us grow. 
 
 To the one Deity, as G-od alone, 
 
 By all within our land, is honor shown. 
 
 The rites, though varied, have no other aim 
 
22 
 
 It I 
 
 ii 
 
 ; 
 
 Than high to glorify the sovereign name, 
 Our Brethren of the North with sage foresight, 
 Have welcomed to their land the Christian light, 
 And Druid temples wisely have been given 
 That Northerns all may seek the Christian's 
 heaven." 
 
 OSTORIUS. 
 
 *' Just what we dread." The astute Ostorius claims, 
 •* Allow them once, rapid their growth, the names 
 They'll soon efface of all the Gods of Eome. 
 Such progress, you foretell, the age to come 
 "Will joyful see. Whatever yet may be, 
 Eejoice we in our G-ods and liberty." 
 
 CAEACTACUS. 
 
 " Yet more ; fast moving in advance of fate, 
 The Christians' triumph you'll accelerate. 
 Of Greece's sages you've the wisdom sought ; 
 Much lore has your own experience brought. 
 'Tis strange you have not learned opinion's power 
 May not be crushed, it reigns the Empire o'er. 
 By force and torture long you've tried to stay 
 
23 
 
 The Christian thought ; yet wider spreads its sway. 
 
 In Rome scarce yet it's half a century old, 
 
 And you must own, both firm and sure it's hold ; 
 
 To root it from the land all power is vain ; 
 
 The rushing- tide to stem the more you strain. 
 
 The more it speeds, like the wuld ocean's swell, 
 
 As onward driven by some resistless spell. 
 
 With fire and sword you cease not to assail ; 
 
 Ko effort known to state craft can avail. 
 
 Where hostile weapons may not reach, 
 
 Their new Philosophy the Christians preach ; 
 
 Your homes it seeks, the palaces of Rome 
 
 Its tribunes and its temples oft become. 
 
 In every place, so great it's come to be, 
 
 That you're constrained its marvellous growth to 
 
 see. 
 *' Christians to the lions ! " your savage, cry ; 
 In vain ; Christians your lion power defy. 
 Of hundreds now to death the barb'rous fate ; 
 Yonr butcheries new hundreds prompt create. 
 Such cruelties must end the Roman sway; 
 Ev'n now, from Rome, in horror, turn awav 
 
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 24 
 
 The nations— her allies, sick at the sight 
 Of persecution, heathen Home's delight. 
 Improvement, hastening with the march of time, 
 The advancing world will rule from clime to clime. 
 In days not distant far, 'twill be our lot 
 To see effaced the foul disastrous blot, 
 The worst that e'er the race of man disgraced, 
 Eome's Empire on the verge of ruin placed." 
 
 OSTORIUS. 
 
 *' Less cruel than your own the Roman State, 
 To your best countrymen a direful fate, 
 Heartless, you assign ; nor doth this suffice ; 
 Worse still, the innocent you sacrifice ; 
 Whilst Eome, more merciful, can only slay 
 Such as offend the G-ods, our surest stay." 
 
 CARACTACUS. 
 
 *' Hold Eoman ; foully you calumniate 
 
 The salutary practice of our State. 
 
 Whate'er to you both good and wise may seem, 
 
 Criminals to punish most just we deem. 
 
 All nations rightly doom to a like fate 
 
25 
 
 Such as, deliberate offend the State, 
 Practice essential to the country's weal ; 
 Not so with sacred innocence we deal." 
 More still the hero would have safely said, 
 "When by a sudden gust his speech was staid. 
 Uncertain now the hard strained galleys ride. 
 Tossed on the wild waves of the Northern tide. 
 Louder and more loud the rude tempest's breath ; 
 Rush waves on waves, with danger fraught and 
 
 death ; 
 Furious the gale ; mad seas roll high and fast, 
 As if Eome's Demon G-ods were in the blast. 
 Storm beaten, sore distressed, Ostorius' fleet 
 Is scattered far, no hope to ever meet. 
 At length subsides the troubled ocean's rage ; 
 Hasten the favoring genii to assuage 
 The elemental strife ; at once are still 
 The turbid waves, obedient to the will 
 Of sea controlling Neptune whose domain 
 The far spread waters of the foaming main. 
 And now the vessels near those noble straits, 
 The ancients named of Hercules the gates. 
 
i 
 
 ! 
 
 I' 
 W 
 
 26 
 
 The storm's no more, and, grandly changed the 
 
 scene, 
 G-aily the galleys ride 'neath skies serene. 
 Nor winds nor waves the fleet of Rome assail, 
 The midland sea it ploughs with swelling sail. 
 An Island now is gained, amid the deep, 
 Whose wave beat rocky sides rise high and steep. 
 Joyful the toil-worn warriors seek repose, 
 And the tossed seamen at the first day's close. 
 Came, as he calmly slept, a vision bright, 
 Our hero's soul to cheer, a glorious sight ; 
 Britannia, in grand triumphal mood. 
 Before the astonished, dazzled Briton stood. 
 In her right hand a trident huge she bore 
 That seemed to nod o'er the surrounding shore. 
 *' Well hast thou fought, my noblest patriot son. 
 In days to come for Britain's battle done, 
 Will live thy warrior name ; nor e'er will cease 
 Thy well won praise ; thy valor will increase 
 Of Britain's sons the warlike fire ; thy fame 
 Incite them as they onward to renown 
 And empire spring. By this great trident shown, 
 
27 
 
 All round the midland sea, her mighty ;ill 
 Shall give command and passions all be still." 
 Awoke the hero with the rosy morn ; 
 Nor more could heed the haughty Eoman's scorn. 
 On speed the galleys o'er the placid wave, 
 Bearing their rich freight of warriors brave. 
 Triumphal honors greet, at happy Eome, 
 The warlike band returned victorious home. 
 Conspicuous 'mid the Eoman pageant grand, 
 The vanquished champion of the British land. 
 Richly arrayed, is seen stately to move. 
 
 Lordly, as beseems, bent proudly to prove 
 
 The unconquered mind, resolved in Eome to show 
 
 Though captive, unsubdued by fated woe. 
 
 Amazed he views the palaces of Eome ; 
 
 Still more amazed that Eome his humble home 
 
 Should seek to seize. "What envy must you own?" 
 
 The hero said, " that, cruel, you put down 
 
 By robber war, a people brave, though poor, 
 
 And bid your legions spoil onr lowly store 1 
 
 Sprung of a royal race, my lineage old, 
 
 Proud Eomans, even, surely might have told 
 
r 
 
 I 
 
 28 
 
 My honor to respect ; I might hare come 
 
 A nation's ruler, welcome to great Rome. 
 
 Less wise, ambition spurred me fatal on, 
 
 Till now, at length, my prosp'rous fortune's gone, 
 
 And sad, alas ! in sore disgrace, my fate 
 
 The glory swells of Rome's exalted state. 
 
 Warriors and arms, great wealth and power were 
 
 mine. 
 These could I all without a pang resign ? 
 All men to rule you mighty Romans aim ; 
 Vain you pretend that all men own your claim. 
 If, unresisting, 1 had borne your sway. 
 Your glory less, my fall unknown to-day. 
 If death my doom, the deed will blot your fame ; 
 Your pardon will exalt the Roman name. 
 I glad would live, in brightest freedom live ; 
 My war 'gainst Rome your glory to forgive." 
 Then Claudius Caesar from his gorgeous throne : 
 ** Grenerous, we give thee life ; nor life alone ; 
 A boon to Briton's dear, sweet liberty 
 We freely grant, at Rome thy destiny ; 
 Her highest honors all thou'lt lib'ral share, 
 
29 
 
 And civic rights these lofty honors bear." 
 Empress Agrippina, in pomp of State, 
 G-randly enthroned, thus the brave Briton's fate 
 Thoughtful consoles: " Mourn not your altered lot ; 
 Adverse your war ; meanwhile, it leaves no blot 
 Your name can tarnish ; free and safe at Rome, 
 Cease to regret your much loved British home.' 
 With age may die the glory of our name ; 
 No age can ever dim your matchless fame." 
 
T"" 
 
 MALCOLM AND MARGARET, 
 
 I • 
 
 £1/ </ie iJer. ^7ieas McDonell Dawton, L. L. D., F. R. S. Read before the Royal 
 Society of Canada, at its annual meeting, held at Ottawa, in May, 1886, 
 
 Where now the Royal Towers of Windsor stand, 
 
 An Exile long, far from his native land, 
 
 Thus mused Prince Malcolm, mourning his sad fate 
 
 That barred the way to Scotland's Royal State : 
 
 " Hard is my lot ; much kindness, yet, the while, 
 
 Of Holy Edward, aids me to beguile 
 
 The weary hours ; right welcome too and sweet 
 
 The happy days where 'tis my joy to meet 
 
 Margaret and Edgar, Much good to come, 
 
 I augur from their friendship when at home 
 
 I dwell once more, and wear mayhap, the crown 
 
 My Fathers wore, and justly call my own. 
 
 Rumor, busy ever, on its nimble wings, 
 
31 
 
 From Scotia's land the gladsome tidings brings 
 
 Of war's success, war that has bravely waged, 
 
 The true MacDuff, who oft the force engaged, 
 
 That held enthralled, by base usurping power, 
 
 Our fair Domain, foul tyranny all o'er 
 
 Prevailin"^, to the loss and sad dismay 
 
 Of loyal men, the fate that could not stay 
 
 To rebel will, that gave our Scotia's state. 
 
 Changed it would haply seem, at length, though late 
 
 By a brave soldier's toil, the varying tide. 
 
 Of fickle fortune, — victory on our side. 
 
 More must I learn, Oh ! that would promptly come 
 
 Fresh, hopeful tidings from our war vexed home !" 
 
 Lo ! as he speaks, all travel soiled, appears 
 
 The brave MacDufF, much worn with many years 
 
 Of faithful toil, all for his country done. 
 
 In breathless haste, from Scotia comes he lone, 
 
 His Chief, the banished Malcolm, home to guide, 
 
 His reign legitimate the Nation's pride. 
 
 Asked how with Royal Malcolm's cause it fared. 
 
 His joyous tidings thus the Thane declared : 
 
 " All peace from White-horn to bleak Thules shore. 
 
1 ,- 
 
 32 
 
 1 
 
 ! 
 
 Our patriot host, by Edward's power increased, 
 
 From warlike, toilsome efforts never ceased, 
 
 Till on the battle field, in death was laid, 
 
 The usurping force our arms so long had staid. 
 
 Wide o'er Scotia had spread the fame, 
 
 A charmed life Macbeth could certain claim. 
 
 To hurt this chief beyond all power of man. 
 
 This King to kill, none born of women can, 
 
 " Know, then, proud Lord, your mortal foe's in sight. 
 
 Lo ! now, at last, you're doomed to meet in fight, 
 
 A warrior, whose days by, wonderous skill 
 
 Began of surgeon's art, his lot, to fill 
 
 A place of might and glory here below. 
 
 And lay the tyrants of his country low." 
 
 Appalled, yet hopeful, was the usurping king. 
 
 Much his great strength could cheering comfort 
 
 [bring, 
 His num'rous host all over Dunsinane, 
 
 Extended far, along the rugged plain. 
 
 Undaunted there and confident he stood. 
 
 For he had heard that until Birman wood^ 
 
 ♦Birman wood on its way to Dunsinane. 
 
 Each soldier bearing a tall bi.\nch loaded wi h foliag'e, 
 
 The advancing army had the appearance of a moving forest. 
 
33 
 
 Moved on to Dunsinane, would be withstood 
 
 The mighty foe. As if risen from the soil 
 
 And animate, the trees in rank and file. 
 
 Like soldier bands, his serried ranks approach ; 
 
 Now on his lines they daringly encroach. 
 
 '' What fate is this ? My tide of fortune's low." 
 
 Too brave a knight to shun so great a foe, 
 
 He bids the battle join, deals blow for blow. 
 
 Avails it not ; encounters he alone. 
 
 The Chief, MacDufF, ere vet the strife is done. 
 
 Like two dark clouds, with awful thunder fraught,. 
 
 The warriors meet. That terrible onslaught 
 
 The battle's end. Nor yet, of woman born 
 
 The man, who deals the stroke by which are torn 
 
 The laurels from his brow, and low in death, 
 
 Is laid the grand ambition of Macbeth. 
 
 So told the warrior Thane ; replied the King : 
 
 " Avails it aught that you to Scotland bring 
 
 King Duncan's heir, long to his country lost, 
 
 'Mid various trials, as if tempest tossed ? 
 
 Spoiled here and wasted in luxurious ease, 
 
 I never could the warrior people please. 
 
T 
 
 34 
 
 Extravagant, besides, the greed of pelf 
 
 My fatal bane ; my will to seek itself 
 
 For e^er bent, the warlike people's mind 
 
 Could ne'er endure a Monarch of such kind." 
 
 Thus said the Prince, dissembling. Sorely grieved 
 
 Was good MacDufF. Better he'd not believed 
 
 That serious spoke the King. In haste to leave ; 
 
 ^' Adieu, my Prince ; our fortunes to retrieve 
 
 Some other fjcion of King Duncan's line, 
 
 We needs must find, since fairly you decline, 
 
 Incompetent." It joyed the Prince to hear 
 
 Such words, so patriotic that appear, 
 
 So earnest and so true. " Only to try 
 
 Your love, still more, and your fidelity. 
 
 We false described ourself as time will show ; 
 
 And you by wise and valorous acts shall know, 
 
 Of sterner stuff made up your lawful King ; 
 
 Justice, likewise, and wisdom he will bring 
 
 The land to rule, his studv to restore 
 
 Order and peace, by the utsurper's power 
 
 So long overthrown." Rejoiced the grave MacDufF, 
 
 *' Justice, wisdom, noble mind, — Praise enough 
 
35 
 
 "For best of kings. Prosperity we'll find : 
 
 The nation's power and glory, wise mankind 
 
 So richly prize, will all be truly ours, 
 
 Scotia triumphant 'mong the greatest powers," 
 
 The generous Edward lends an escort grand, 
 
 Resolved the Prince shall enter Scotia's land, 
 
 In power and circumstance of Royal State, 
 
 G-reat glory from this epoch bright to date. 
 
 The people all in joy, each road way throng, 
 
 Their long lost King to greet, as moves along 
 
 The Eoyfl cavalcade. The journey o'er, 
 
 New honors on the much loved Prince they shower; 
 
 Churchmen with zeal, the people emulate, 
 
 And prove themselves devoted to the State, 
 
 As on the Liafail he takes his place. 
 
 That Eoyal seat he's destined long to grace, 
 
 They twine the crown around the monarch's brow, 
 
 And festive honors all, rejoicing, show. 
 
 Now, Scotia vexed no more by civil broil. 
 
 Enjoys the sweet rewards of warlike toil. 
 
 In Anglia, meanwhile, so long the home 
 
 Of Scotland's Eoyal Exile, change had come ; 
 
36 
 
 The mighty Norman Duke there reigned alone, 
 The noble Saxons overthrown, undone. 
 All England claimed, his own, the Norman Lord, 
 Its court no longer shelter could afford 
 The Eoyal Saxons : prompt they bend their way 
 To Hungary afar, from foes away, 
 A home to seek, where friendly kindred dwell, — 
 — The house of Agatha,^ that loved them well. 
 Not thus ordained. Wild storms their fleet assail , 
 Opposing winds and raging waves prevail, 
 O'er ocean, tempest tossed, they fearful toil. 
 And reach, at length, the hospitable soil 
 Of Scotia dear, glad they have safely gained 
 The realm where now, their friend, brave Malcom* 
 
 [reigned. 
 New joy was this to Scotia's prosperous Lord, 
 Still greater bliss 'twas destined to afford. 
 Until this happy time in grandeur lone, 
 King Malcolm wisely filled the Scottish throne. 
 The King and Princess Margaret now decide 
 In wedded love for ever to abide. 
 
 
 * Princess Agatha ot Hungary, the mother of Edgar, Margaret and Christiana. 
 
37 
 
 So, hand to hand, and willing heart to heart, 
 The holy churchman joins them ne'er to part. 
 As well became the pious man of prayer, 
 Auspicious words to utter was his care. 
 *^ May every blessing on the monarch flow ! 
 His power and wisdom ever daily grow ! 
 Elessed in his court and in the tented field, 
 May guardian spirits ever watchful shield 
 His Eoyal seat ! To latest hour of time, 
 His children rule o'er Scotia's favored clime ! " 
 (xalore of feasting crowned the joyous time, 
 And sheep in hundreds, on each day, we've slain. 
 As round the board, our nobles flocked amain. 
 Nor wanted there, the generous feast to grace, 
 The wassail bowl, its ancient fitting place 
 That ever found, the welcome guests to cheer, 
 And oft was filled for gladdened Prince and Peer. 
 Of Scotia's Noble games the grand array. 
 Such as both skill and vigor could display, 
 Meet pleasure gave. No gladiator show 
 That oft in Eome caused patriot blood to flow, 
 Dared here prevail. Of old Rome's cultured state 
 
1 1 
 
 I: 
 
 38 
 
 Mayhap it proved. Ferocity and hate, 
 Most men will deem, such needless deeds of blood 
 More surely showed than courage and manhood 
 On that Dunfermline ground, of old wide famed, 
 And now Grolftirum, by modern Scotia named, 
 Was played each national game that well could 
 
 [grace 
 The Eoyal feast, where all their honored place 
 Enjoyed, peasant, alike, and lordly peer, 
 The only strife who should most rich appear 
 In playful gikill and grand athletic power ; 
 'Twas who could best his pointed arrows shower 
 On mimic foes, or, who could farthest throw 
 The ponderous stone, or, raising high and slow 
 The Scottish caber, hurl it o'er the plain, 
 The crowd's loud plaudits eager each to gain. 
 Some athletes in the hard contested race 
 Their prowess show ; others, their name to grace^ 
 A game essay, to Scotia only known — 
 The risky sword dance, where are ably shewn 
 Skill and ability beyond compare. 
 By those who in the seeming danger share. 
 
39 
 
 In exercise of wrestling now engage 
 
 Some warlike chiefs, and, struggling, seem to wage 
 
 Dread war itself; meanwhile 'tis only play ; 
 
 An athlete's crowned the victor in the fray. 
 
 This noble game the mightiest even try. 
 
 All o'er the crowded plain, the people's eye 
 
 Looks on intent, as Malcolm and Macduff, 
 
 Men both of strong indomitable stuff, 
 
 The playful combat seek. Of no avail 
 
 That either victory hopes. Nor shall prevail 
 
 The warrior king, nor doughty hero lord ; 
 
 An equal fight their mutual powers afford. 
 
 More, even, than the nation's rousing play fights, 
 A bard with store of song their minds delights. 
 In numbers sweet he sings and wondrous rhyme, 
 Of deeds heroic in the olden time. 
 From G-algacus, the chief, who nobly gave 
 To Rome defeat, and Scotia free could save. 
 Proud independence won, the land all o'er. 
 From sea to sea 'gainst mighty Roman power, 
 To Fergus, king, of whom the lofty fate 
 The glory to renew of Scotia's state. 
 
40 
 
 Many a grand event, well known to fame, 
 Recorded he ; how second of the name, 
 Heroic Malcolm, savage Danes repelled. 
 And, finally, their arms completely quelled. 
 Now sang the bard ; Scotia, to greatness grown, 
 Her friendship sought the Imperial crown. 
 And conquering Charlemagne with Scotia com- 
 
 [bined, 
 And round the crown the lily tressure twined. 
 May yet be seen, the rampant lion round, 
 This tressure grand, on home or foreign ground, 
 Where'er the glorious Empire flag's unfurled 
 That rules, in peace and power, the admiring world. 
 Nor yet had done in Scotia's praise the bard ; 
 Still 'mid the throng his soothing voice was heard : 
 *' Kind hospitality of Scotland's clime 
 The record grand, throughout the vears of time, 
 Eut most, when cruel persecution raged, [^] 
 
 [*] Liberati curia externia, nihil prius habuerunt ScDti, quam ut Rellerionem 
 Christianam pronoveretit ; occasione illine orta, quod multi ex Britannis Christia- 
 ni timentes, ad eos confugerunt : e quibus coniplures, doctrina el. vita integritate 
 clari, in Scotia substiterunt, vitamque solitariam tanta sanctitatis opinione apud 
 omnes vixerunt, ut vita functorum Oellte in Teinpla conimutarentur ; ex eoque- 
 conauetudo mansitapud Posteros, ut prisci Scoti Templa Cellas vocant. (Buchin 
 nanus Berum Scot : regnante Fincormacbo anno sabutis 301-348.) Page 104. 
 
41 
 
 And in the Roman British Province waged 
 Continual war, and 'twas the direful fate 
 Of Christian men to bear the deadliest hate 
 Of Heathen Eome. Then Scotia, ever free, 
 And scourge of ruthless tyrants e'er to be. 
 Refuge and home to hapless exiles gave, 
 From chains and death, generous, to save 
 Each victim as he reached her rock bound shore. 
 Right glad with him to share her plenteous store. 
 This more her praise. Christians, as yet, were few 
 Her land throughout ; yet well and wise she knew 
 Opinion to respect ; not with the sword 
 Conviction force ; with philosophic vord 
 Alone, to stay whate'er amiss was deeiaed. 
 Such way to ancient Scotia wisdom seemed, 
 *' Truth is great," she owned, " and will prevail." 
 Like thought the cause of truth could much avail ; 
 Christ's teaching, hence, came soon to rule the mind, 
 And, powerful, guide the conduct of mankind. 
 To learned Christian Exiles much was due. 
 Lovingly they discoursed and showed was true 
 The creed they held ; the glorious light of Heaven 
 
42 
 
 Repaying full the bounteous aid was given." 
 Moved as with a charm, by the Bard's sweet strain, 
 The gracious Queen bestowed a golden chain. 
 And, promptly round his neck 'twas graceful thrown 
 Most fitting gift the child of song to crown. 
 Now ends the feast ; and to their homes repair 
 The people all ; the king his royal care 
 "With joy resumes, for well the monarch knew 
 No nation e'er to power and glory grew, 
 Deprived of rule ; to watch and legislate, 
 He ever deemed, became his lofty state. 
 The best of kings are not exempt from hate. 
 Such, once, at least, was good King Malcolm's fate. 
 Of fierce conspirators a desperate band 
 The royal power most daringly withstand ; 
 But vain their hopes, their ablest efforts vain ; 
 Knows well their angry passion to restrain 
 The wary King. Each name to him was known, 
 The dark and trait'rous plot completely shown. 
 The King and Court, on a bright summer day, 
 Were hastening to their hunting grounds away ; 
 Among the rest, the chief on whom the lot 
 
 ^ 
 
43 
 
 ^ 
 
 The King to slay. To a sequestered spot 
 Was led the rebel lord ; well armed with swords 
 Both King and foe ; then spoken were these words : 
 " My life, I know, you seek ; since man to man 
 "We're chanced, now take it, traitor, if you can." 
 A suppliant mean, down on the earth lay low, 
 As if by lightning struck, the treach'rous foe, 
 *' Arise, Sir Thane, your monstrous crim.e's forgiven. 
 Implore ye, prompt, the healing grace of heaven." 
 Since Duncan, gracious king, became the prey 
 Of treason foul, a tyrant to obey 
 "Was Scotia forced, and, sad, we must relate, 
 The nation fell from its high moral state. 
 Impatient grown of reason's proper sway, 
 Best virtues all, were gradual swept away 
 By civil strife and feuds that knew no end. 
 'Twas earnest sought such direful ills to mend, 
 The Queen herself a change most longed to see, 
 If 'twas appointed change should ever be. 
 By counsel sage and reason's powerful word 
 "Reform would come, but never by the sword. 
 
■<-rr- 
 
 "■■n^ 
 
 am 
 
 44 
 
 
 THE KING AND QUEEN, 
 In council with Lanfranc, Bishop of Canter- 
 bury, TuRGOT, Bishop of St. Andre \vs, and 
 other Saxon and Scottish Prelates. 
 QUEEN MARGARET. 
 
 *' Long as the usurping, G-odless tyrant reigned, 
 The vices all and crime new victories gained. 
 Eeligion fled, and with it passed away- 
 All traces of the glorious Sabbath day. 
 From worse to worse the nation sank apace, 
 Changing, alas ! to dark and foul disgrace 
 The glories of our land. Will ne'er be found 
 A healing salve that once again around 
 Scotia will spread her ancient virtue's fame ? 
 Restore, at length, the honor of her name ? 
 Most learned Prelates, speak ye, without fear, 
 What in your minds shall fitting most appear 
 Our ills to heal, our social state restore. 
 And give to virtue once again its power." 
 *' Well said, my Queen, your high behest to fill 
 Our study is ; our pastoral care and skill 
 Will not be spared ; the people all shall hear 
 
 i 
 
 
45 
 
 Our warning voice ; and holy words that cheer 
 The Christian mind, this spacious land around, 
 Shall oft be heard, and constant, earnest prayer 
 To ofler up shall be our pious care. 
 Against each sin that with corroding power 
 So long our people's vitals could devour. 
 New vices breed, fatal perpetuate 
 Dark evil's reign, and sorely vex the state ; 
 All morals gone, to selfishness men given, 
 Forsaking every one the ways of heaven." 
 Thus spoke the Pastor of Saint Andrews Fane, 
 Replied the Saxon Lanfranc, " Not in vain 
 Your words ; severe, but true ; we'll toil amain, 
 In Saxon land as I have often toiled. 
 And the base wiles of barbarous heathens foiled, 
 As by the great Augustine wisely taus^ht. 
 From Eome who came with Grospel knowledge 
 
 [fraught, 
 "With heavenly wisdom bright and wondrous power, 
 Spread glorious truth the Saxon world all o'er. 
 Longer on you have been abundant showered 
 The dews of Heaven, best graces daily poured 
 
ll 
 
 46 
 
 On all your race ; eight centuries have gone 
 Since on your land the light of Heaven shone. 
 Still in your people's heart of hearts its home, 
 'Twill to the front once more rejoicing come, 
 And blesd your soil traditions consecrate 
 Of virtue's deeds heroic, in your state, 
 That 'mong the nations spread your early fame, 
 Raising to glory's height fair Scotia's name." 
 Hopeful the Queen, exulting in the thought 
 That remedies so sure were anxious sought. 
 Impediments there were, she fearful deemed, 
 That to her mind insuperable seemed. 
 The Bishops all were good and loyal found ; 
 Yet of complaint there wanted not just ground. 
 Their country ^^ the state they faithful served, 
 From rectif- owas known, they never swerved. 
 But this t. , fault, the toils of state their care, 
 They could not well those pious labors share. 
 Th'o church required ; each Priest, a Statesman, 
 
 [Thane, 
 His Flock scarce knew ; this the dark ages bane. 
 Such state of things the wary King well knew ; 
 
 1 
 
47 
 
 But great the Churchmen's merit 'twas his view. 
 
 " Of learning there is lack among our Thanes, 
 
 Hence needful are our Churchmen's civil pains. 
 
 If once are lost these pillars of the state, 
 
 'Tis hprd to say what's doomed to be our fate." 
 
 *' Too meanly," says the Queen, " do you esteem 
 
 The talents of your Thanes ; to us they seem 
 
 In loyalty and wisdom to excel. 
 
 In rule to aid, wisely at once and well, 
 
 Most competent ; witness your bravest Lord, 
 
 MacDuff, who could, in days gone by, afford 
 
 Of diplomatic skill undoubted proof. 
 
 Such men to hold from state affairs aloof, 
 
 Unwise, I deem, and to the Nation's loss, 
 
 Their place to fill the men who bear the cross. 
 
 Can ne'er O, King ! successfully aspire. 
 
 Better they to their sacred Fanes retire, 
 
 Their flocks instruct, the glorious light diffuse 
 
 Of Gospel Truth that National life renews." 
 
 " Well argued, noble Queen, we shall essay. 
 
 As now our power's confirmed, your prudent way. 
 
 MacDuff, I ever found a Statesman good. 
 
 I 
 V 
 
 r 
 
PR 
 
 iii 
 
 48 
 
 Nor yet a warrior less. 'Tis understood 
 Our Thanes with me the toils of rule shall share, 
 And leave the prelates to their Pastoral care." 
 Full well, throughout the land 'twas known, 
 Presbyterian almost the clergy grown, 
 Unmindful of the true and old belief, 
 That ixi the Synod Bishops are the chief 
 This claim alone, the Priests could fairly state 
 Their plaints to bring and urgently debate. 
 Their right enforce and, powerful, cause be given 
 Redress of wrong beneath the eye heaven. 
 Hence, by King and holy Council 'twas decreed, 
 Synods be held, providing for the need 
 The Church's prirtine vigor to regain, 
 And save the priesthood from all deadly stain. =^ 
 Thus spoke the Queen " To council we are come ; 
 Lanfranc, I trust, you will not leave for home, 
 Until another question pass through hand, 
 And on the same your mind we understand- 
 Nought e'er the Church divides can I approve. 
 Hence, Sects, if possible would I remove. 
 
 ♦See treatises on Diocesan Synods by theologians generally and in particular, that 
 of Pope Benedict XIV. 
 
49 
 
 Such are the " Keledei " to me it seems. ^ 
 
 I fain would know what Canterbury deems.'* 
 
 " A question fair," the Prelate makes reply ; 
 
 " We who on holy Scripture all rely, 
 
 Must Sects condemn, for, anto all 'tis known, 
 
 By word Divine, such, carnal works are shown. 
 
 Eight hundred years the Church had wisely taught 
 
 Ere came like novelties with error fraught. 
 
 Vain they pretend, like us, to worship true. 
 
 Erroneous are their rites because they're new, 
 
 And not by Christ's inspired Apostles given, 
 
 TVho taught the truth as it 'twas revealed by Heaven. 
 
 In sacred unity perfection lies ; 
 
 Who think not so, our Lord himself decpise. 
 
 That his disciples should be ever one, 
 
 As he is and the Father, 'tis well known. 
 
 He, earnest, prayed, his prayer unheard noLie dare 
 
 *The rite observed by the ' Keledei" or "Culdees," in celebrating mass, and which 
 appeared to Queen Margaret and the Bishop her biographer, strange and barbarous ; 
 must have been corrected as far as it was essentially contrary to the general prac- 
 tice of the Church, for the Late Rt. Rev. Bishop Kyle, a very learned antiqnary^ 
 says; "We learn that the Keledei, Cele d€, or Culdees, long after St.' Margaret's day* 
 were permitted to observe, in their own Churches or Chapels a rite different froni 
 what was followed by the rest of the Scottish clergy." In this there is nothing 
 strange. The United Greeks are in communion with the Western Church, although 
 they observe a different rite. (Turgot's Life of St. Margaret. Translation by W. 
 F. Leith, Edinburgh, 1884. 
 
 
mm 
 
 ■Hiiniii 
 
 50 
 
 Ever pretend. This teaching all must share. 
 
 And with one voice, ( in Apostolic lore 
 
 It's well decreed ) humbly our Grod adore. 
 
 But how the sad revolt 'twere best to quell, 
 
 The bishops of the land may surer tell." 
 
 *' Such work by state power never can be done : 
 
 Jby preaching of the living truth alone. 
 
 The truth that's great and destined to prevail ; 
 
 Against its light no error can avail. 
 
 Both still and small at first its voice may seem, 
 
 But, in the end, as all men wisely deem, 
 
 It wins the day." Thus, spoke St. Andrew's priest ; 
 
 Eejoiced both King and Queen ; " Not in the least 
 
 Eemoved your thought from ours ; to latrst time 
 
 May Scotia hold this view, to every clime 
 
 A beacon light, that e'er wall glorious shine 
 
 And show how persecution we decline " 
 
 Next came the Queen's complaint : 
 
 How ill the Scottish Sabbath day was spent. 
 
 ^' The week's last day, in Jewish times of yore, 
 
 "Was duly kept, observed and honored more 
 
 Than now the first, — that day from death arose 
 
51 
 
 Our victim Lord from whom salvation flows. 
 
 More sacred, then must seem our Sabbath day, 
 
 Our piety and holy customs sway. 
 
 How best the honor of the day renew, 
 
 I glad would hear each learned churchman's view." 
 
 '' Your words wise Queen it gives me joy to hear 
 
 Quite plain appears the question of this time :— 
 
 — The Sabbath day's observance in your clime. 
 
 Augustine, oft was zealous heard to preach 
 
 This ordinance ; the same we constant teach ; 
 
 And, Saxon land, throughout are certain known 
 
 The duties of the sacred day we own. 
 
 It's wonder that with you has seen decay 
 
 The day of Qod, that Northern people stray 
 
 From teachings of eight hundred years and more, 
 
 Since first religion reached the Scottish shore. 
 
 A custom, almost lost, would I renew ; 
 
 But, more to urge our common truthful view 
 
 Of Scotia's learned prelates 'tis the part. 
 
 And press the cause with all their soul and heart." 
 
 Thus Lanfranc spoke. The prelate of the north, 
 
 In wise and pleasing words, his mind gave forth. 
 
1' 
 
 52 
 
 PI 
 
 a 1 
 
 .111 
 
 M 
 
 
 " Our evil days, long years of tyrant sway, 
 
 Much virtue of our people swept away. 
 
 Best pious usages could not withstand 
 
 The tide of ill that flooded all the land. 
 
 No effort of the priesthood could avail 
 
 To stem, the torrent destined to prevail 
 
 There's dawned at length a more auspicious time. 
 
 And glories new adorn our Scotia's clime. 
 
 Each holy custom, dear to her of yore, 
 
 Will now revive, and daily, more and more, 
 
 G-ain strength, and sound opinion's lofty power 
 
 "Will happy reign our favored land all o'er. 
 
 The day of rest, to bless mankind that's given, 
 
 Most precious gift to man of gracious Heaven, 
 
 So long'^to ancient Scotia's people dear. 
 
 In pristine power and splendour will appear, 
 
 In minds of all its wonted place w^ill gain, 
 
 From age to age to latest time, will reign. 
 
 The Queen and Monarch timely aid will lend, 
 
 The Clergy all their pious thoughts will bend 
 
 The People tolnstruct, from early way 
 
 Unconscious fallen, unheedingly astray. 
 
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63 
 
 A great revival will, ere long, result, 
 
 In path of duty all men vrill exult, 
 
 And Scotia's Sabbath in each humble home, 
 
 A light will be to Nations yet to come." 
 
 No more to peaceful labors of the State 
 
 Could th^ -^ise Prince for a time vacate ; 
 
 War, with its hundred toils, he's forced to wage, 
 
 And war, alas ! will thoughtful minds engage. 
 
 Th'. Norman England's People let prevail ; 
 
 'G-ainst their strong voice could never force avail. 
 
 Thus Edgar thought, nor sought to win the Crown ; 
 
 Claimed he, alone, the lands of riiyht his own. 
 
 These to restore King Malcolm lent his aid. 
 
 First 'gainst the wrong was firm remonstrance made. 
 
 Wise Statesmen to the Saxon Court were sent ; 
 
 But nought the King could move, on evil bent. 
 
 Chief of warriors, then, MacDuft, the noble Thane, 
 
 King Malcolm loved, proceeded to explain 
 
 Prince Edgar's claim ; commission large he bore ; 
 
 If still unmoved, refusing to restore. 
 
 The King was found, would certain war ensue 
 
 For Edgar's right. The wary Thane well knew 
 
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 The Royal mission to fulfil and seek 
 
 The wished redress. 'Twas fit that he should speak 
 
 Fearless and firm. His boldness moved to rage 
 
 The Norman Prince. Never v^ill he engage 
 
 One foot of earth to yield, '* Go tell your king 
 
 My fixed resolve." '' Such stern reply will bring 
 
 Disaster sad. For, war must I declare 
 
 In virtue of my charge. Myself will share 
 
 Honor and peril both ; my joy to dwell 
 
 On tented field and bravest foes repel, 
 
 The wrong to stay, until Prince Edgar's right 
 
 Confirmed shall be against your warlike might." 
 
 With passion dumb, the King abrupt withdrew. 
 
 Our noble Thane aye to his mission true, 
 
 To Scotland promptly sought the well known way, 
 
 His warriors all to marshal for the fray. 
 
 King William now, sad and alone we find 
 
 Thus breathing forth the workings of his mind. 
 
 " Barbarian ! Thinks he, once his hordes afield, 
 
 That England's Conqueror to the Scot will yield ? 
 
 By force of arms my lot the crown to gain. 
 
 By conquest mine, fearless will I maintain 
 
55 
 
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 The Royal power by war and warlike pain, 
 If show of right Prince Edgar e'er could claim, 
 From every Saxon record, with his name, 
 'Tis hopeless flown, and he, to exile gone, 
 A home may seek in the bare mountains lone. 
 The wide spread fields pertaining to the Crow a 
 We've justly seized and henceforth call our own." 
 To Scotland's Court the tidings swiftly spread. 
 Diffusing sorrow, but of war no dread. 
 King Malcolm thus declared his royal mind. 
 And nobly shewed the Monarch good and kind : 
 " In vain that desolating war I hate. 
 Its banner once again to raise my fate. 
 And valorously scatter, far and wide, 
 Those foes the myrmidons of William guide," 
 Nought is there seen can e'er inspire dismay. 
 His faithful Thanes, all burning for the pray, 
 Around him throng. From southern Sol way's wave, 
 "Where smiling fields so grand and proudly lave 
 Forth's waters dark, and Scotia's mountains tower, 
 Comes speeding forth his formidable power. . 
 The warrior King his valiant troops reviews. 
 
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 Each Thane his fealty to the Throne renews. 
 
 Hope of success looms brighter and more bright, 
 
 When, strange to tell, a cortege grand's in sight ; 
 
 An Embassy, in royal state appears. 
 
 For love of peace the King its message hears. 
 
 *' For terms of peace naught else do we demand, 
 
 In just obedience to our king's command, 
 
 Than this one reasonable boon alone, 
 
 That Edgar you give up to England's throne." 
 
 ** What is't you say ? Ten thousand wars I'd wage 
 
 'G-ainst England's might sooner than I'd engage, 
 
 Thus cruel and disgracefully, betray 
 
 My trusting guest. Hasten ye hence away. 
 
 Inform your king, 'gainst him war I declare, 
 
 And with my Thanes will all its dangers share." 
 
 King William thought 'twas best that he should 
 
 [slight 
 The daring of the Scot ; yet would he fight, 
 And to a highest Thane the w^ar confides. 
 This warrior lord with skill and valor guides 
 The embattled force ; his efforts all are vain ; 
 No arms the power of Scotland can restrain. 
 
 
57 
 
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 Next Glouster's Thane a valorous array 
 
 Leads to the field ; it hastens to the fray 
 
 And bravely fights ; but doomed, ere long, to meet 
 
 Discomfiture; disaster and defeat. 
 
 Then fiery Odo, brother of the king, [#] 
 
 Into the field a greater force would bring. 
 
 Whate'er to other wiser men might seem. 
 
 This warlike Churchman's lot it was to deem 
 
 Most militant the Church should be. 
 
 Swayed by this creed, he left his Flock and See. 
 
 Doffing for war the Prelate's holy gown. 
 
 Burning with ill timed Zeal to serve the Crown. 
 
 Donned he, then, the brave soldier's coat of mail, 
 
 Ne'er doubting he'd in war 'gainst foes prevail. 
 
 With lightning speed the news of this array 
 
 King Malcolm reached . Promptly he took his way 
 
 The Prelate's formidable force to meet 
 
 And with his warriors' aid inflict defeat. 
 
 A host of Scotland's Leaders, wise and brave, 
 
 [*] Multo majores copias eo duxit Odo^ Gulielmi frater, Ex Episcopo Bajocensi 
 Cantii oomes factus. Quern cum late Northumbriam populatua f uisset, ac cfiesia non- 
 nullis qui populatione eum prohihere nitebantur, redeuntem cum ingenti praeda 
 Milcolumbus et Sibardus (Northu mbriee Comes) adorti, spoliis exuerunt. multis de 
 «jua exercitu intere mptis etcaptis. , ^ 
 
 (Bachananua Rer. Scot., lib. VII, 13.) 
 
r-HB^ 
 
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 The King attending, hope of victory gave. 
 Of warriors Chief, MacDufF, and many Thanes 
 Of high degree come forth, the toil and pains 
 Of glorious war to share. G-reat Banquo's heir 
 "Walter, the wise and good, his part must bear 
 In the great strife, new and high honors gain 
 Whilst Edgar's cause he labors to maintain. 
 Northumbria's Thane, alike, is in the field, 
 Bent bravely for his liege the sword to wield. 
 Meanwhile, before this force can meet the foe. 
 Priest Odo's barb'rous troops spread fear and woe 
 The land throughout, — Northumbria's fertile land. 
 Each town to loot, a plund'ring robber band 
 Hostile proceeds, and merciless bears away 
 The people's stores, spreading all round, dismay. 
 Better they'd have reserved their warlike power 
 The tide of war to stem, for now the hour 
 Is nigh when Scotland's manifold array 
 They must encounter, and, like men, display 
 More soldier virtue than, as yet, they've shown, 
 Wasting rich fields with wreck and ruin strewn. 
 Comes now the battle's shock ; forward now sways 
 
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 And back each mighty host. All warlike ways 
 Stoutly tries each side ; might 'gainst equal might 
 Ineffectual toils, doubtful still the fight. 
 Recoils, at length, the valiant Norman power. 
 Press on the Scots, and clouds of missiles shower 
 On the retreating foe, now driven to flight 
 And sad discomfiture. In the hard fight 
 Normans in thousands fall to rise no more 
 And claim a portion of their ill-got store. 
 His plunder all the beaten foeman yields 
 He'd gathered in Northumbria's wasted fields. 
 One feeble eftbrt more ere yet be done 
 King William's war. Proceeds his first born son 
 The Scot to beard. His prowess naught avails ; 
 The Northern Monarch still in war prevails. 
 The proud Norman, foiled in the battle field, 
 Eesolves, at length, reluctantly, to yield. 
 Prince Edgar's lands he will in full restore. 
 The Prince himself to hold he'll seek no more, 
 But into favor take, and next the throne 
 His place assign, the King himself, alone. 
 In more exalted state. Thus peace is found ; 
 
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 Foul barb'rous war no more 'gainst Scotland's 
 
 [ground. 
 The captive Normans all are generous freed, 
 Save only one. The Prelate, 'twas agreed, 
 In bonds should stay, till he his state retrieve 
 And Holy Church less militant believe. 
 Of Malcolm now, it was the Royal care 
 His captains all, who in the war had share, 
 With lands and martial honors to reward. 
 Claims, first, Chief Th&ne, MacDuff, the King's 
 
 [regard. 
 Those titles new, the old that well replace, (^) 
 Are liberal conferred, which best may grace 
 The victors of the field. To Ducal state 
 Is raised MacDuff*, and honors like await 
 Heroic "Walter, Thane who bravely fought 
 Those rebels of the North who rashly sought 
 The King to overthrow. No longer name 
 Of Thane he'll bear. As Steward now his fame 
 Will spread, — high Steward of the Scottish land. 
 
 (*) A nonnullis primus creditur nova et p< regrina nomina, quibus bononiiu 
 pfradus distinguuntur, a vicinis accepta. nee minus barbara quam erant priora, 
 mtroduxssse, Duces, Marchiones. Comites, Barones, Ridaros sive Equites. [Bu- 
 chanan : Rer. Scot. lib. VII ; 14.] 
 
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 Abthane, or chief of Thanes, we understand, 
 The title was. As Stewart it will shine 
 For ages long, in Banquo's honored line. (*) 
 When on the field, at the great battle's close. 
 King Malcolm and his soldiers sought repose, 
 A vision bright to the wise king was given. 
 Edward, the Saint, from his abode in Heaven, 
 Descends, and thus accosts the victor Kino- ,- 
 " Good tidings to my valiant son I bring. 
 Thou, for my children's cause hast nobly fought 
 G-reat battles, and their freedom, dearly bought 
 With warlike toil. Hence, thus shall ever stand 
 Thy recompense. O'er Scotia's happy land. 
 Thou long wilt reign ; and when thy days decline, 
 From age to age, in an unbroken line, J 
 Thy sons will rule ; and Scotland, ever free, 
 
 (*) Valterus, casso tumultus duce, ita cteram multitudinemfe compressit ut 
 rex eum reTersum. ob rem bene gcstam, Stuartuni totius bcotice fecerifc. quasi 
 dicas Oeconomum. Hic magistratus census omnes regies colligit ; jurisdictionera 
 eiiam. qualem conventuuni prefect! habet ac prorsus idem est cum eo quem 
 priores Thanum appellabant. Atque nunc sermone Anglico patrium iuperante 
 regionum Thani plerisqus in locis Stuarti vocantur ; et qui illis erat Abthanus 
 nunc btuartus Scotiae nominatur. Pancis in loc's vetus Thani nomenadhuc 
 Manet. Ab hoc Valtero cepit initium Stuartorum familice, quae jam diu apud 
 Scotos rerum potitur. [Buchanan ; lib. VII. 19.] * 
 
 JMalcolm and Margaret enjoyed a long and prosperous reign of six and thirty 
 years,--from A. D, 1057 to 1093, « « »*awmiy 
 
 
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 Thy name will praise in peace and liberty." ^ 
 So spoke the Saint, nor waited lor reply, 
 But sought anew the glories of the sky. 
 The warlike Prelate wearying for his home, 
 Besought the influence of powerful Rome. 
 At length, the Holy Father sent this word : 
 ** A proof of duty, pious, you'll afford, 
 Our mind to glad ; from bonds release our Son." 
 The King gave this reply, and this alone : 
 To Rome he sent the Prelate's coat of mail, 
 With words that could not but at Rome prevail : 
 " Judge, Father, whether this thy Son's coat be ; 
 If so you think, we'll surely set him free." 
 
 I 
 
 ^Scotland was governed for the space of 200 years by seven excellent Kings.that is 
 by their three sonSjEdfjar, Alexander. David, by Davil's two grandsons. Malcolm IV 
 ftnd William , and William's son and grandson. Alexander IT and Alexander III, 
 during which time the nation enjoyed greater happiness than perhaos it ever did 
 before or after. 
 
 See histories of Scotland. 
 
 
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