't.Ail& LV:*i k /-v THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES CORNUBIA A POEM, IN FIVE CANTOS. CORNUBIA : A POEM, DESCRIPTIVE OF THE MOST INTERESTING SCENERY, NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL, In the COUNTY OF CORNWALL ; Interspersed with By GEORGE WOODLEY. " Jlis was not theeye "To which wide ocean could no charm unfold: " Nor his the heart, to pass unfeeling by " Those cavern'd shores (o which the wild wave roU'd : *' 'Twas iiis with warnUii romantic to behold " lilachshel vino; strand, (Ipcp bay, and shallow creek, ' Each rocky isle,and clifl abruptand bold." ^VlLLYA:lI3's " Injlueiice of Genius.'' SOr.D BY LONGMAN, 111'R.ST, KEF.S, OPvME, AND BROWN, P.^TER NOSTf-Il I'.OV.- ; SOLD ALSO CY MICHELL AND CO. TRUIiO J AND BY ALL OTHER BOOKSELLERS IN CORNWALL, MiciiJl and Co. I'rititcrs IIi-!i Cross, Truro. IS19. 534;; W36 TQ HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS e prime Mt^mty DUKE OF CORNWALL. SIR, In soliciting the high Honour so graciously conferred of being permitted to dignify this production with the august Name of Your Royal Highness; I was desirous both of testifying my respect to my Prince, and of presenting to Your Royal Highness same inter- esting views of a Region, remote, indeed, from the Seat of Empire, yet possessing strong claims n. on the attention of the Statesman, the Philoso- pher, and the man of Genius ; and which derives an additional title to consideration, as the ap- panage of the Heir Apparent to the British Throne. It would, however, be foreign to the nature of this work, to gratify my feelings by a recital of those measures by which, in the course of a long and arduous administration of the Re- gal functions, Your Royal Highness has pre- served England and Europe from usurpation and dismemberment, and happily restored and con- tirmed lo this Kingdom, the blessings of peace an! security. To the pen of History, therefore, 1 cliecrlullv resign the recording of deeds which an impartial posterity will not fail gratefully to appreciate. But I may be permitted to express my admiration at the protection which, even during the seasons of public apprehension, and whiist the clangour of war was heard on every sifk*, the I^'ine Arts have uninterruptedly enjoy- t;i under Your Royal Highness's fostering and bountiful care; whilst 1 should be culpably ne- L tigent, did I not also remark that the spirit of iiixralitv which so emincnlly distinguishes \\:.ii iU/.AL tiiGHNLos, aiihn. Lsq. Ptnzauce. Capl. Julian, 11. N'. Pcnpoll, near Traio. Capl. Jenkins, Royal Mineis, Trtiro, F. Jamet, Esq. Heislon. Mis James, Newton, Si. Mawes. Mr. Jewell, Surjjeon, St. Coliimb Mr. JdmesJuhn, I'mrii. Mr. J Joiiuings, Ihtiu SUBSCRlBtlRS. Mr. G. Karkeek, Truro. Sir W. Lemon, Bart. M. P. Carclcw. General Mackelcan, Truro. Rev. G. A. Moore, Garlinnick, near Grampond. Rev. George Millet, Dunmow, Essex. Mils Martin, St. Just. Mr. J. Merifield, Truro. Messrs. Michell and Co. Truro, 8 Cepies. Mr. W. Michell, Cainpriguey, near Truro. Mr. John Michell, Calenick, near Truro. Nicholas Harris Nicholas, Esq. Waterloo Villa, near Looe. Mr. J. S. Nicholls, Truro. Mrs. Elizabeth Peters, Truro. Miss M Peters, Ditto. W. Peter, Esq. Harlyn, near Padstow. B,e?. C. Powlelt, Brickhouse, near Dunraow, Essex. Mrs. C. Powlelt, Ditto. Miss Powlett, Ditto. Rev. R. Polwhele, Kenwyn Vicarage, near Truro. Mr. Powell, Surgeon, Truro. Mr. Pulford, Tregothnan. W. Penrose, Esq. Tregie, near Truro. Mr. John Penrose, Truro. Mr. R. Penrose, Redruth. Mr. Pearce, Truro. Mr. M. Pacoc. DiUo. SUBSCRIBERS. Price Rawlings, Ksq. Saunders Hill, Padstow, 2 Copies. Capt. Reynoldn, R. \. Pennair, near Truro. Mrs. Raijner, Diinmow, Essex. Mrs. Rejnolds, Trevenson. Mrs. Reynolds, Pool. Mr. R. Robarls, Truro. Mr. J. R. Rouse, Ditlo. Mr. Henry Rubiusoii, London. Admiral Spry, Killiganoon, near Truro. George Simmons, Jun. Esq. Truro. Rev. Edmund Squire, FeUted, Essex. Mrs. Squire, Dittu. Lieut. Smilh, R. N. Truro. .Mr. Criarles Slioll. Dttlo. Miss C. Stevens, Ditlo. Mr. Richard Skues, Ilclston. Mr. B. Simmons, Loudon, 4 Copies. Mr. R. Smith, Ditto, 10 Copies. Rev. Sir Harry Trelawny, Bart. Trclawny. Rev. J. Trist, Belirni Park, Veryan. Rev. William Toke, Barnslon, Essex. Mri. Nicholas Toke, Dunuiow, Essex. J. Tippelt, Esq. Truro. Mr. W. S. Treleaven, Ditto, 2 Copies. Mr. T. Treloar, Ditto. Mr. W. Till, Loudou, 4 Copies. Mr. George Trenilelt, London, 6 Copies. Mr. J. Tregwning, Truro. Mr. Richard Thomas, Ditto. Mr. F. Thomas, Ditto. Mr. W. Thomas, Ditto. :>, SUBSCRIBERS. John Vivian, Esq. Truro. General Sir R. H. Vivian, Ditto, 4 Copies. John Henry Vivian, Esq. Dilto. T. Viviaa, Esq. Ditto. W. Vice, Esq. Ditto. Colonel Willyaras, Truro, 4 Copies, Mr. Thomas Wotton, Ditto. Mr. S. T. Williams, Ditto, 2 Copies, Mr. James Williams, Ditto. Mr. W. Whitford, Dilto, ^btrtf^twent. " The fundamental subject of local poetry," says Dr. Johnson, " is some particular landscape, to be poetically de- scribed, with the addition of such embellishments as may be supplied by historical retrospection or incidental meditation." Under a perfect coincidence of opinion with our great Critic, the following poem was written ; and it is hoped that the latitude allowed by the terms used in the definition, will be considered a sufficient answer to such Readers as may think the description of the County conveyed in too general a manner. Minutely to measure, scan, and depict every ob- ject that should present itself to notice, might be very desi- rable in a painter or topographer, but surely such an adhe- rence to particulars would be designated as very ridiculous if attempted in verse ! If, in the following work, the Writer has been enabled to trace a tolerably correct outline of the most remarkable features of the objects selected, so as to en- able the Reader to identify the scene intended ; if there be found a locality of description suftkient to confine the imagi- nation to a particular spot, without descending to those mi- nute (ittails which are only adapted to the iKuuI-raaids of tiie xvi. ADVERTISEMENT. Muses ; he has certainly fulfilled all that he contemplated, and all, he hopes, that the "gentle reader" will require. In adopting this method of describing the scenery of Corn- wall, it has been judged expedient, for the sake of greater perspicuity, to divide the County into five portions, each of vhich forms the subject of a distinct Canto. But it would be too much to expect that the writer should rigidly confine himself to mere geographical niceties, and pursue his re- searches with lineal precision, following only the course of the map and the regular succession of objects on the diflTerent coasts. On the contrary, he has ventured, ( and, as no in- convenience can arise from the circumstance, he thinks it un- necessary to apologise for it) to take great liberties in this respect, as might best suit the nature and design of the poem. Thus, the Canto entitled "the Southern Coast" ends at Fal- mouth, and the remainder of the interesting scenery on the South (or rather South-Wtstern) frontier, is noticed in another division of the work. He lias also given what may be te^rmed a bird's-eye view of scenes whirl), tliough they may well be supposed lo present themselvt.^ to the gaze of the Muse in the nianmr htrtiiiafler described, canncit be thus viewed by any other sight. To mention those tilings here, will, it is hopi--d, obvi- ate every objection that niig'it otherwise be brought against tiuir occurrence. In composing the following work, the Writer has neither soc;ght nor rert-l\cii assL^tanre in any .sliape. I!e has trusted v.liol'y to his own resources, and if these have in any respect bren dcHcieiit, ibat cuxuui.'-lai.ce m;iy be pleaded :u txU'iuiuli'jii. ADVERTISEMENT. ;cvii. A diversity of metre has been adopted in the third and fourth Cantos, as well for the sake of variety, as from a wish to adapt the numbers to the character of the scenes described. For the use of those Readers who are not conversant in Cornish topography, a few Notes are added : For the sake of others, those notes are as brief as possible. The Author regrets the delay which has occurred in the publication, though proceeding from circumstances over which he had no controul. In now [submitting the work to those who, from local knowledge, can best appreciate its des- criptive merits and defects, he has only to request the exercise of that candour which is the characteristic of every enlightened and hberal mind. At the same time he begs to observe that any friendly suggestions, addressed to him personally, will be received with much satisfaction, and treated with all due attention. CORNUBIA. Sntroliuttorc iie. CORNUBIA. ittttotruttoti; a^Xse. h Genius of Cornwall! from thy deep-hewn caves, { Dank with the droppings of innum'rous mines, ) Where, luU'd amidst the beat of troublous waves. In dread repose, pale Terror's Jarow reclines : II. Or whether thou delight'st to sit sublime On Hensb'rough's giant-peak, 1 and thence survey Each rugged monument of elder time, The rude-wrought cromlech, cairn, or burcow grey : ' 4 CORNUBIA. III. Or, like the eagle, rock'd amidst the storm, Lov'st thou that lofty pile, which, from the deep Rising- abrupt, in grandeur's wildest form, Waves high its quiv'ring crown o'er masses steftp? 3 IV. Or if th' impressive, wide-expanding gloom Of yonder ivied fortress please thee more; Where Meditation summons from the tomb Th' illustrious band who graced thy fields of yore : V. Attend ! for lo ! amidst the din of waves. That on thy coast in thund'ring concert roll ; Amidst each awful charm that Genius crave;;, At once to startle and to soothe the soul, VI. A minstrel's strain is heard I His trembling wire Attracts thy sons once fam'd for war and son^; And, as thy scenes his varied verse inspire, Pleasd Echo wakes, the numbers to prolon;;. INTRODUCTORY ODE. VII. And well I ween such prospects might engage A loftier lay, did those who boast the flame Of Heav'n-born Poesy, direct the age To find its pleasures in Britannia's fame^ VIII. But ah ! to climes remote, where sensual chains Enervate man, the modern harp is strung; And, whilst it swells to Oriental strains. Old Albion's richer glories are unsung ! IX. But far from me th' invidious task to aim Detraction's bolt; yet if my country see In these weak notes, a patriotic claim, Haply her favour yet may beam on me. X. And dearer do I prize her virtuous voice. And prouder would I wear her valued meed. Than if each monarch made my lay his choice. And plausive nations ratified the deed ! e CORNUBIA. XI. Yet thou, CoRNUBiA, wilt not disregard A wight who fain would make thy merits known ; Nor slight the labours of a humble bard That weaves his votive verse to thee alone. XII. AVhat though thy gen'ral aspect, bleak and drear, flepel and mock the superficial eye ; Though russet hills on ev'ry side appear. And rocks in wild confusion round thee lie ; XIII. Though no palaceous pomp, no forest shade, ^'o scene that Indolence might love t' explore, No splendid walks, magnificently laid. Invite th' unheedful tourist to thy shore ; XIV. Thou, like thy native gems, canst proudly boast Features and charms peculiarly thine own ; And plastic Nature, when she join'd thy coast, Gave it a claim to other soils unknown. INTRODUCTORY ODE. XV. If the rougb forms wrought in her wildest mood, If rocks and hills, in grand succession piled, If aught sublime and terrible, though rude. By Nature fram'd, can solace Nature's child; XVI. Let him- turn hither ! Here his eyes shall find, Amidst thy tow'ring cliffs and foaming seas, Amidst thy hoary hills, that mock the wind, Whate'er can' raise to awe, or lull to ease. XVII. Thou, like a miser, jealous of thy store, Conceal'st it from external gaze with care ; But who thy subterranean paths explore. In ev'ry varied form shall meet it there. XVIII. Metals, in nice gradation finely rang'd ; Earths, of each different hue that artists know ; Primordial rocks, by time and chance unchanged,. Lie treasur'd 'midst thy wealthy hoards below. 8 CORNUBIA. XIX. And there ^like Genius pining in the shade ' Pure crystals oft dart forth the ardent ray That shows their worth ; and when to light convey'd Give a new lustre to the glare of day. XX. But not, CoRNUBiA, though thy proudest boasts Be in thine awful cliffs and costly mines, Hath Nature, niggardly, refus'd thy coasts Scenes where her sweetest skill with Art combines. XXI. Thou, too, canst claim the river's glancing tide; The pebbly beach ; the soft-indented shore; The verdant lawn ; the grove's umbrageous pride ; The lordly edifice, high peering o'er XXII. The smiling prospect : Checquer'd is thy land, By Nature wildly, here, and plainly drest; But oft as Science moves her inagic wand. The povv'r of contrast ihiues with double zest. INTRODUCTORY ODE. XXIII. These blended charms my willing muse would sing; And, in descriptive numbers, fain pourti-ay What well might suit a more exalted string; What yet may waken many a lofty lay. XXIV. Though hard the task, in measur'd strains to dress Pictorial objects ; and their varied hues And changeful features rightly to express. In colours such as Truth and Fancy chuse: XXV. Yet, haply. Application's patient toil O'er obstacles immense shall win her course; And to Imagination paint the soil In sketches pregnant with poetic force. XXVI. A lid lo ! a lovely prospect courts the eye ! Behold where Tamer trails his length alone: ! Tamer ! whose charms with prouder streams may vie, 'tVith thee the Muse begins her devious sons:. CORNUBIA. CANTO I. ^f}t IZamvn atoa^u c 2 ARGUMENT. Address to the Tamer. Invocation. General Dcscriptio.j of the Scenery on the East Coast of Cornwall. Antony House, The Lynher. Trematon Castle. The Tavy, Pcntillie. More particular Description. Effects of Music. Cottle. Singulas Anncdote of Sir Kichard Edgcumbe. The Pleasures of contcm plating: Nature. The Wear Head. Launceston Church. Obser- vations on Ancient Ecclesiaitical Architecture. Laiincestc> Castle, CORNUBIA. CAVTO I. Cl^e (BcL^ttm aroa0t On Tamers wave ( what time the morning- ray Of fervid Summer, brought, in bright display. All Nature's charms before th' admiring- eye. And ev'ry object 'woke to raptures high ;) Where its expanding waters proudly bear Their noblest freight, and navies own their care ; Lightly we launch'd ; and to the lagging gale Gave the full compass of our playful sail. Tamer I majestic river ! oft the theme Of rural bard, who from thy winding stream 14 CORNUBIA. CANTO I. Caught Inspiration; and, in grateful song Tun'd to thy praise, the pleasure would prolong; Haply, my faithful Muse may, not in vain, Expatiate on thy woril; in artless strain. Oft was it mine, amidst thy limpid wave Pregnant with health my youthful limbs to lave; Oft, on the surface of thine argent tide, ( While Pleasure htld the helm) secure to glide. And mark as Fancy heighten'd ev'ry view, And wann'd each tint to Feeling's richest hue, Thy course erratic ; and, enraptur'd, trace In ev'ry novel scene a novel grace I From where Mount Edgcumbe's groves ( my earliest theme. In vain selected! ) court the orient beam, To vvhtre Cutele, in revVend garb array'd. On tliy still waters casts a peaceful shade. How did I joy the varied sounds to hear That broke, in swttt succcssiijn, o'er mine ear. As, ever and anon, the fickle wind I>om shore to shoie my changeful prow inclin'd. 'ihose (lays are lied '. 'ih' illusive joys of youth DispelI'd iieneath llie chilliiig tou< h of Truth, And sad F.xp' rif lire mocks the l)0{)e that gave 'i he hard a home beside thv [iiui id v.a* e ! iNTo I. THE EASTERN COAST. l^ But whercsoe'er my devious journey tends, Where'er the pilgrimage of sorrow ends, Still, in the hour of calm, shall Mem'ry trace. Well pleas'd, the charms that deck thy beauteous face, And dreams of pleasures now for ever fled, Shall soothing softness o'er my slumbers shed ! ! might my humble lines the merit claim That stamps thy title to superior fame ! ^ Though long, not wearisome ; though changing oft. Yet harmonizing by gradations soft ; And well reflecting Nature's varied hue. True as th' original, and clear as true ! How grand this scene ! where, o'er the spreading tide. In long array, dismantled squadrons ride ! Squadrons that late Britannia's mandates bore. In thund'ring accents, to each hostile shore; Till the Usurper, from his station hurl'd, Seal'd, by his fall, the welfare of the world! Though now, bereft of all the proud display (Th' artill'ry's lengtheu'd tier; the streamers gay; That erst fill'd adverse fleets with wild disma}'^; The genii that command the boist'rous deep. Sail in their caken caverns yeem to sleep I 16 CORNUBIA. CANTO r. Edgiug' the bordei-s of each scooping shore, Scenes of continued int'rest we explore : The spacious arsenal, the busy town, The grove-fenced mansion, the expansive down, The cultur'd field, the distant village-spire: And, ( as in long perspective they retire. Blending their dusky colours with the sky, ) Cornubia's heath-clad mountains meet the eye. On yonder point, by circling woods embraced,* Rais'd in synmietric pomp by modern Taste ; East Antoni/n exact and spacious pile, Amidst the pleasing landscape wears a smile; And justly claims the rich and varied view Of scenes enliven'd by its form and hue. Lrc yet of sylvan solitude wc dream, Lo! where tiie L'/nher brings his tril)ule-strc;iin To Tamer's bulk ; thus, like the world, bestowing Unneeded wcadi on channels overflowing! - Lynher, scarce knowing whitlier winds his way. Delights through tiacts diversified to stray ; And, fif.m high AlUriioii, where swells his source, Sweeps throii^h the varied grounds with ben'ling I'onrse, Till, near \\Ii(r(> Trcmalv.nii romantic t(.w"r G'ernw-es r:nd (.;-giiif\f;s the neir.lib'rin'i shorf. CANTO I. THE EASTERN COAST. 17 As if ambitious all his strength to take. He pays his homage from a spacious lake. Lo ! where, 'midst fieldg with genial verdure spread. The ancient fortress rears its hoary head ; And like a mighty rock, expos'd and vast, 3Iocks the fork'd fire and braves the stormy blast ! Thus he, whose actions bas'd on virtue stand, Unmov'd remains though perils press at hand ; Nor all the shocks of trouble can divest The adamantine shield that guards his breast .' In rugged majesty, the circling keep. Round which th' insidious ivy loves to creep, Proudly o'ertops the lofty, sullen mound. And sheds a pleasing sadness wide around ! Beside the fabric freely pass the gales (The groves and zephyrs love the peaceful vales) But, at its feet, with richest foliage warm, The rural scene assumes its loveliest form ; And purling rivulets, and huts, and trees. Bespeak the suited home of peace and ease. And now, tliat point we pass, with gentle sweep, Where ancient Ashe ascends the rocky steep ; 3 Whose solemn chapel crowns the lofty hill, Diitinguish'd 'mid'&t the straggling groups that fill 18 CORNUBIA. CANTO i. The sloping side ; and to the solar ray, With look inverted, through ihe waters play^ Sweet is the prospect ! Here, cor plashing oar Nor Labour's shouts disturb ihe Fancy more, But leave her freely to enjoy the view i Soft as the hand of Nature ever drew I As gently on before the breeze we glide, Behold where Tavy yields his placid tide. Short is his course from Devon's neighb'ring mooi-s To Tamer's curving and romantic shores : 'Verdure attends his w^iy ; no storms molest The settled calmness of his gentle breast. But bright, through cultui'd banks, his waters gleam, And softly blend with Ccirnwall's nobler stream. How like the virtuous man in humble sphere, "Who works no evil and wlio knows no fear ! He dreads no storm, lie courls no fav'ring rav; But calmly keeps liis unobtrusive w;iy : His destin'<1 (f fullils, from trouble free. Then softly glides info eten.jty ! r-;';.;li where Si. Mcllioii's unassuniiiig fane fasts a faint shaddw o'er the wat'ry plain, Pe;i'i/Iic\ noble pile, in gothic guise, r-<;a-;s fr'jic tli' embracing groves that charm the eves CANTO I. THE EASTERN COAST. 19 With rich variety of light and shade. As struggling rays, bright gleaming through the glade. Vainly essay to pierce th' impervious wood, "Whose leafy arms have long the storm withstood. Behind, yet ah ! too prominent to view, la evil eminence, if Fame say true, Rais'd on a lofty and romantic mound, Discern'd afar amidst the op'ning grou.iJ, The unbeliever's tow'?- oSends the eye, And shudd'ring nature chills while passing by. Why thus it rose, why stands with impious swell, Th' indignant, blushing Muse declines to tell.^ Bright smiles the sky, in silver'd azure drest. And Nature wears her loveliest, greenest vest; The tide unbroken by the dripping oar. With step inaudible assails the shore. As fearing to disturb the sweet repose And soothing calm, that all the landscape knows. Reflected from pellucid waters, gleam i'he charms that decorate the magic stream, And ev'ry o])ject earih and sky can show Inversely shines from the still wave beliw I Sure 'tis enchantment all! Though hills arise Al)Ove our hcadsj in Nature's richest gui.-e ; 20 CORNUBIA. canto r. Though stately locks, magnificently gay, Start irom the tide, and form the frequent bay; Though trees and shrubs in wild luxuriance springing On every chfF. their shadows round are flinging ; Scarce can alarm'd Imagination dare Assert she glides not through the liquid air, So deep within the stream the mimic hue Reflects the scene in tints, so rich and true ! Hybloean odours from the flow'ry dale And verd'rous hill, inspire the luscious gale; And ev'ry sense, in pleasing wonder caught. To extacy's sublimest point is wrought ! For now the flute pours forth its warbling tone. And waking echoes make the sound their own ; The sylvan band successively repeat Ihe perfect strain, -inclotliou?, strong, and sweet: From hill to vale, from vale to hill it flies, Sweeps through the woods and charms the list'ning skies. Till, finely spreading round, it slowly dies. I^ut ah ! the rich variety to tell Of tsw'riiig ciilf, gay mead, and shady dell, ]; 'lamer lav'd, as slow he winds along, ""' (, i;''! far surpass the pow'r of sinjj)!o song ! CANTO I. THE EASTERN COAST. 21 Whilst rival counties aggregate their charms To woo the fickle wand'rer to their arms. The stream, alternately to eac h inclin'd. With pleasing error, loves his course to wind In sinuous measure : Now he seems to sleep Beneath Coruubia's headlands, rich and steep. Well pleas'd to view her rocks in foliage drest, Like Strength array'd in Beauty's 'witching vest ' Anon, he darts away, proud to explore Devonia's fragrant, soft-receding shore. 1 rresolute, amidst opposing charms. Round either coast he winds his wat'ry arms. And, as serenely on his way he glides, His wave connects what yet his bulk divides. But see ! where, peeping through luxuriant trees.. That scarcely nod to the saluting breeze. In venerable pomp, Cote/e's old pile Still, through the lapse of ages, seems to smile. A beauteous rising walk invites the feet To tread the precincts of the lone retreat. And well its magic scen'ry shall repay The mind that loves amidst its grounds to stray. Woods, finely group'd, whose giant-shadows throw A pleasing coolness o'er the walks below ; 22 CORNtBIA. canto i. Fantastic rocks, in various figures wrought, To please the eye and exercise the thought ; The deep, impressive silence, that pervades With undisputed sway, these sacred shades ; All join in sweet accordance to impart A soothing pow'r to melt and warm the heart ! The mansion, whose embattled tow'r displays The castellated pride of distant days, With painted pane and gothic casements graced, Shall richly gratify the eye of Taste. Here, in the lofty hall, may still be view'd Each implement of ancient hardihood ; And dinted armour tells of times of old, And feats of gallant knights and warriors bold. And here have I whilst ev'rv object brought Visions of distant days before the thought Spent the delightful hour, while rapt'rous mirth Increas'd as ev'ry sally sprung to birth. On this green spot, where erst the vet' ran knight Marshall'J his hardy vassals to t!ie fight ; "While Youth and Pleasure led, I joiii'd the band Of tripping votaiists; and hand in hand, Swung down the mazy dance ; while the grey fane Slii'tk'd at modern music's livelv straiu ! CANTO I. THE EASTERN COAST. 23 t)n yon romantic eminence, whose gleam Proudly shoots forth to hail the passing- stream, A gothic chapel, reverend in year?, In plain and hoary sanctity appears. O Muse ! unroll the legendary page. And let its tale thy willing lay engage. When the third Richard (whose ambitious aim Usurpingly to wear a monarch's name, Prompted the wretch in infant-blood to steep His demon-hands, and murder helpless sleep ! ) Found all the land disgusted with his sway. And gathering hosts prepar'd to disobey ; { Ere yet from France, call'd by his country o'er, Richmond return'd to rule his native shore;) Far in the west the patriot fire had spread, And Hope already saw the tyrant dead. Yet still, a num'rous, pow'rful band remain'd, By Infamy secur'd or Dread restrain'd, Devoted to the despot's will ; and long They sought to quell the patriotic throng By fraud and force, nor vainly strove awhile ; As when, to kindle a stupendous pile. Much time and s-kill are needful, though the heap Fraught with combustible?, be fonu'd to keep 24 CORNUBIA. canto i. And cherish the communicated glow, Yet must attention lengthen'd cares bestow. At first, 'tis all insensate, cold, and dark ; Then, faintly glimm'ring to the proffer'd spark. Emits a partial blaze, yet quickly check'd Alike, by eager rashness or neglect. So, though tlie nation, fraught with virtuous ire, Was well prepar'd to meet the sacred fire, Yet apprehension often urg'd delay ; And many, who, in Bosworth's happy day Acquir'd deserv'd renown, fear'd to pursue The dawn of Hope, and trembled at the view Of th' uplifted axe, the traitor's chain, The badge of infamy and scourge of pain. Not so Cotele's brave chief; that gallant knighi Sir Richard Edgcumbe, justly fam'd in fight, Nor less by ev'ry kinder grace endear'd To all who liberty and truth rever'd ; Shunn'd not by public actions to make known Zlis detestation of a blood-staiu'd throne. And soon, assembling all his vassal force, 'sVith them he strove to bend hi-; patriot coursr To where the rising pow'r of Wales display "d Ihe flag of honour, and in;plor'cI ki^ aid CANTO 1. THE EASTERN (;0AS1. 2g Ah uie ! that ever act deserving fame Should fall successless of its purpos'd aim, And the strong force of Virtue's Heav'nly dart Be turn'd and blunted by malignant Art ! Deceiv'd by spies, the gen'rous vet'ran prov'd He trod on faithless ground where'er he mov'd. By greater numbers of the foe oppos'd He saw each avenue of shelter clos'd. Dispirited, his squadrons sank away. Dreading the tyrant's pow'r and vengeful sway,. And left the helpless knight alone to stand Expos'd beneath a ruthless despot's hand ! Cotele's paternal mansion could no more ProftVr the shelter oft bestow'd before ; And in its woods alone the hero found His last frail hope, by Fate propitious crown'd. As, hid amidst the foliage of an oak, "Whose leaf-clad arms the day's intenseness broke, The pensive knight in musing mood reclin'd, Stuklen he heard, borr.e on the rising wind. His foeman's horn; and soon, in martial pride, He saw their crested helms, as, spreading wide. Through his lov'd groves they march'd in fierce array. Questing, like hounds, their long-expected prey. D 25 CORXUBIA. canto i. Ecneatli his guardian trco, full many a row Caily advancing', held discourse beluw, Of rich rewards, of honours and of spoils. Soon as their victim should adorn their toils. One effort now alone remain'd to save The warrior from an ignominious grave, One only effort, that might haply stay The rage of persecution, and delay His foes' invet'rate hate, till happier times Again should call him to chastise their crimes. Descending from the tree, with trem'lous haste A pond'rous stone he seiz'd ; then, quick embraced The i)endiiig branches, that inclin'd to greet ( As conscious duty bade ! ) their master's feet. His cap and cloak about the weight he bound, Then hurlM it fiercely o'er the sloping ground ; In Tamer's stream the rolling body dash'd ! The branches rustled, and the waters flash'd ; Th' expanded garments, floating o'er the tide, Seem'd to declare that Edgecumbe there had died! Astonish'd and dismay 'd, the hostile crew Beheld the tokens, and belie\ "d them true ; With sullen mutt'rings blam'd their wayward fate, Bvt left ihw heiu ihtltei'd fioiu their hate. CANTO I, THE EASTERN COAST, 27 Grateful and pious, to indulgent Heav'n For life and safety wonderfully giv'n, The worthy knight, soon as a gentler hand With peace and justice bless'd the happy land, Here, on the spot from which the weight he threw,-^ Here, where his tree of preservation grew, This votive building rear'd ; and here, each day. His thankful orisons he lov'd to pay. Whilst o'er the tablet of his melting soul Each incident in sweet succession stole. And, haply, still if spirits freed from clay Through earth's domains may yet pursue their vvay Oft here, at lonely eve, or solemn night. Celestial harps the story may recite, This moral breathing full on Wisdom's ear Virtue, though long oppressed, need never Jear / ! happy he, who, shunning public noise, And all of Fashion's unsubstantial joys, Through shades like thine, Cotele, delights to stray. Where Peace and Pleasure greet him on his way, And ev'ry object opens to his view rhe charms of Nature, in her loveliest hue ! To him, the verdant carpet's flow'ry bloom Exceed? tlie proudest boa;t of Persia's loom 28 CORNUBIA. canto u The rich adornings of the Summer-sky Is Meditation's stately canopy; And the full concert of th' harmonious grove Awakens ail his soul to holy love ! AVhether, at early dawn, he marks the dyes Of richest hue, that in the orient skies In glorious pomp appear, ere yet the sun His bright diurnal journey hath begun ; Or whether, when the ineek-ey'd Eve appear* In shadowy veil, and mute Attention hears The loss'ning hum of Labour die away, He loves amid the misty scene to stray ; Still, wheresoe'er his progress be address'd, 'Tis his to taste the banquet of the breast, In ev'ry scene, in ev'ry place, to find The purest pleasure to regale the mind. "With thoughts sublim'd, with passions pure and even, He walks with Innocence and talks with Heav'n; And ev'ry changeful scene, the nodding wood, The heaving mountain, the tempestuous flood, The peaceful valley the sequester'd glade, The lonely grot, for Contemplation made ; All, with a soolliing influence, impart Peace and contentment to his grateful litarf ciNTO I. THE EASTERN COAST. 29 As Meditation ev'ry thought inspires, Philosophy instructs, or Genius fires. Again distend the sail ! The breeze invites ; And Tamer's winding banks have new delightSj To tempt the busy fancy to explore The rich exuberance of his mazy shore ! On yonder height, crowning the woody hill. See Calstock's lofty tow'r serenely fill Its due proportion in the shifting scene: Hard by, 'midst friendly groves, and hillocks greea, On Cornwall's eastmost promontory bas'd, Lo ! Harewood's beauteous pile, in modern taste. Peers o'er the swelling ridge; and thence beholds The gladsome pictures either side unfolds ; All varied, rich, and warm. Nature and Art, In grateful emulation, here impart To all the landscape, that peculiar glow Which their united pow'rs alone bestow. Here, Cultivation, eager to display Her variegated hues, in bright array Has cloth'd the blooming fields ; and a!i h':r pow'rs Shine forth, confess'd, in grasses, corn, and fluw'rs : Wliile Devon's rocks, extending many a mile, Adorn'd with shrubs, proclaim the varied stile D .3 30 CORNUBIA. CAMO i. '\\'illi which inrentive Nature can invest Objects that else might chil! the musing breasi. Still higher gliding hark ! the rushing sound Of falling waters ; whose impetuous bound Beats from the stream below a misty spray. That partly veils his progress from the day, Declares the spot where, o'er the river's bed The crafty Wear across its course is spread. An artihcial ledge of rocks, laid o'er In studied breaks, 'Iwixt each protruding shore. Here juts in varied masses ; and presents To the mild stream such huge impediments, That though his checquer'd course, above, below, Pre-eminently boasts his placid flow; Awhile he lays his gentleness aside. And, rising, swells his bulk in liquid pride: Then, bursting down, with loud and thund'ring roar, Breaks forth in foam, and startles either shore, As, with incessant fall, and progress fleet. He hurries onward in a curving sheet; Till, each rude f>l;stacle well overpast To wonted mildness he returns at last. !!o\v fit an emblem of a iKjble soul, \^ here sense and feeling swav with due eontroul'^ ANTO I. THE EASTERN COAST. 31 While Nature's course he holds, through Virtue's ways, What breast restrains the tribute of its praise ? The calm serenity that marks his face, Bids all around glow with reflected grace. But if some envious mind his rights invade. Obstruct his progress, or his glory shade, Indignant as the lion, when the cries Of timid hunters force him to arise, His eyes flash fire ; his gen'rous, swelling breast Labours with feelings not to be suppress'd ; He spurns his threat'ning foe; rejects his sway ; And, raging, rushes on his ardent way : Till Reason's 'suasive voice bids anger cease, And gently lulls him to Lis wonted peace ! Here, when the sun through the bright virgin shines. And Summer's fervid influence mild declines, The luscious salmon, true to Nature's laws, From broader seas and deeper streams withdraws ; Intent, 'midst smaller creeks, with weeds o'erhung^. To cast and rear ils unprotected young. And here have I the silv'ry tribe beheld, r7 Instinct's sure and sacred pow'r impell'd, ilenair in shoals ; and, though the barrier, high, M'ght seem thiir urulertaking to defy, 32 GORNUBIA. Have seen them curve tlicir pliant forms around In brilliant crescents; and, wiih vig'rous bound, Spring-ing, resistless, from the lower tide, 0"ei the rais'd wave, through smoother waters glide Ihus, Emulation, when she bids the mind JJy Genius warm'd, by Virtue's lore refin'd. And lorm'd for high achievement, to aspire Above the flights thai vulgar breasts admire; Can grant an energy that stronger glows As gath'ring obstacles its aim oppose, And cause it to ascend the topmost height Of noble daring, by its native might. If, tracing the canal, thou vvould'st renew llu; sylvan prospect; and thy course pursue Al)ove llie rocky barrier, where, array'd To stop lliy progress, rushes the cascade; Scenes, scarce less sweet than those already sung Await thy view ; But, haply, now too long The ]\Iuse halh dwelt upon the c herish'd theme ; Too long hati) linger'd on her fav'rite stream. Her treiii'lDns notes decay ! Yet, can she slight Von maiiic jiJctiin', o])'nii!g to the sight ? r,( hold that ivird 'oridge, though aged, neat ; J hat gently dij)s in Tamer's wavi.: Ins fn I; CANTO I. THE EASTERN COAST. 33 Lightness aud strength their mingled pow'rs combine, In just proportions, in the fair design ; And the encroaching plants that cUrab its side. Adorn the whole with venerable pride. The river, babbling o'er its pebbly bed. Brawls to the arches sweeping o'er its head ; Whilst waving plants, along his banks that grow, A pensive animation seem to know. Behind, outstretch'd in long and airy reach. The stately elm and wide-expanding beech. To deck his margin, twine their leafy arms. And, thus combining, gleam w ith added charms. Around the whole, the monarch oak extends. Gracing the fairy prospect it defends : And, while the distant mountains softly fade. The scene stands rich in one impressive shade ! AVhere Att'ry's petty stream, to Tamer owing A liquid tribute, in his current flowing. Bathes Cornwall's eastern hills, S Dunhevcd high Breaks foith in gloomy grandeur on the eye. Its rich-wrought temple justly will invite Those who in Pallas' fav'rite art delight; 5 Whose labour'd richness may contest the praise Of proudest structures rear'd in modern days. 54 CORNUBIA. tANTo i. Our sires, -with true religious zeal inspir'd. Anxious to honour what their souls admir'd, Deeni'd it their highest boast, their worthiest fame, In fanes superb t' adore the Holy Name. Hence, wheresoe'er the antiquarian eye O'er towns of old renown delights to pry, Whate'er the general features of the place. The Church stands rich in architectic grace. Vaulted and fretted roofs, on clust'ring piles, High, painted windows, long-withdrawing aisles. With sacred awe the solemn dome invest. And shed a warm sensation o'er the breast. Without, extending on the buttressed wall. Sculpture's romantic forms attention call ; Niches and foliage charm the roving eyes. And splendid pinnacles assail the skies. Hence, where St. Germans' eastern streets extend, Its lofty, though unequal, tow'rs ascend Rich in cathedral pomp : In Saxon pride The pillar'd porch expands its portals wide. Hence, lone Kilkliatupton, nurse of serious thought. Where pious Hervfy inspiration caught, E'jasts every charm to meditation dear. To waken solemn dread and holy fear CANTO I. THE EASTERN COAST. ^ Hence, St. Austella's niches yet display I'igures too bold for Fancy to pourtray : Hence, Probus^ tow'r, in sculptur'd foliage warm. Casts on the scene around, a double charm : Hence, IS^eofs paiuted pane, to Sciipture true, Records th' events the Sacred Penman drew : And though but dimly falls the solar light. The truths of ancient days are glowing bright: And hence o'er Laiai stall's fane, the 'wilder'd ejc Roams, dazzled by the vast variety Of pillar, niche, and figure, that present To ev'ry glance, some mystic ornament ; Where ev'ry stone has felt the sculptor's hand. And all in due harmonious order stand. JN'igh where the holy edifice appears, A lofty hill abrupt its bosom rears ; And by the terrors of its awful frown. Commands, while it defends, the vassal town. On its tall brow, with wide-cxtrnding sweep. Majestic, though in ruins, low'rs tlie keep Of that vast fortress, which, in days of yore AVhat time the Romans sought Cornubia's shore The rugged Britons rear'd, with patriot aim To check tlieir inroads and to blot their fame. 36 eORNUBlA. canto i. Tow'r within tow'r in savage might ascends, And o'er the mound their gloomy shade extends ; Whilst, at its base, in isolated forms, ( Guaw'd by the tooth of Time, or cleft by storms ! ) Huge, mould'ring walls, on crazy arches bas'd, Nod their grey tops and threat th' adjacent waste. The pond'rous mass, long sinking to decay, Still shows such great and terrible display Of British perseverance, leagued with toil. And firm resolve to guard the natal soil ; That well might Rome's proud legions stand aghast To view its strong defence, and circuit vast. And long shall Memory with fond dehght Dwell on the traces of its former might. Whilst Admiration with untiring eye Pores o'er each vestige that lies mould'ring by : And Genius, noting with poetic ken The boasts of distant days and lofty men. Recall the time when Cornwall's native lords. In feudal pomp, here spread their festive boards ; And charm'd each pause of war, those walls ainong With wassail revelry and bardic song ! i:nd of the first canto. CORNUBIA. CANTO II. Cte ^outDerit ^omU THE ARGUiMENT. Vipiv from Maoluir Tower, including Moiint T,(?crciin.lii- Kithill, W'liitsand Bay, &o. The Eddystone Liglit-lious'.-. Looc Tielawny and Polvcthan. Lauliydrock. Restormc.l. Mtna- bill}'. The Fowoy, Tiie Fishery. Cacrhaycs. Truro River. Trcgothnan. Tlif Fal. Treiissick. Carclcw, FalmurH:. reiulcnnis Castlt. Historical Retrospect- CORNUBIA. eANTo ir. ^t^t *oiit1D^n iSosi^U Again the beauteous prospect opens i-ound ! Again a scene with num'rous graces crown'd, The heahhful ocean ; the capacious bay ; The river, gliding on its watry way ; The wooded seat ; the mansion's decent pride ; The ruin'd castle, sinking by its side ; The Summer vale ; the misty mountain's form, Scath'd and disfigur'd by the frequent storm ; The rustic spire ; the hamlet, farm, and cot Faintly perceiv'd amidst the rerdant spot ; 40 COllNUBIA. Demand attention, as the roving Muse O'er Cornwall's southern Hue her course pui-sHes. Alive to Nature, and to Mature's charms, The glowing scene, her kindling bosom warms ; And may she boast the praise, in varied lay Those varied features freely to pourtray ! From 3Iuchar''s lofty heights ^ what views arisf. And, in succession, glad th' astonish'd eyes ! Towns, villas, mountains, vallies, meadows, woods, Quicken'd by rolling streams, or spreading floods. Sweetly combining, form a glorious whole. That wakes to joy and extacy the soul ! Mount Edgcumbe, here, in rural beauty bright, (Where rival counties claim co-equal right) - Bedcck'd with ev'ry boast of sylvan pride. Gleams in soft lustre o'er the polish'd tide. Amidst the rich and cultivated plaius That constitute its fair and vast domains, Blithe Ceres smiles, and Nature's self looks bland. As full-blowu plenty waves o'er all the land. Hear too, how sweet the lively choral lay That bursti from ev'ry throat, on ev'ry spray ! Hark ! in yon fence, the tangling briars among, T!ie blackbird warbles his mellifliiotis son'^ ; CANTO ir. CANTO H. THE SOUTHERN COAST. 4t The trilUiig: krk, that soars on eagle-wings, Pois'd midway in the air, his ditty sings ; While, to complete the harmony divine. The woolly tribes their simple bleatings join ; And, in accordance deep, the herds' full strains Fill up the concert of the vocal plains ! Westward from hence, Cormibia's downs are spread. Where high Kit-hill erects his shaggy head ; Rising sublime, amidst the hilly train, He stands, the monarch of th' admiring plain. Yonder, at distance, o'er the ridging land. See Whitsand Bay its ample breast expand, Which, as the sun flings down his splendid rays. Kindles a sea of gold ! beneath the blaze. Dimly discern'd amidst the deep-blue wave That joys its rugged, dang'roUs rock to lave. The lofty light-house 3 warns the nautic train To shun the perils that around it reign. In eddying gulfs the waves theirsports pursue. And hence its name the useful building drew. Like the majestic oak, whose stately form Best braves the fury of the sweeping storm. Widely its base spreads o'er its rocky bed, While the receding shaft rears a dirainish'd head. 4-2 CORNUBIA. anto n. Hence the swoll'n billow, baffled in its course. Assails the edifice with broken force. And but expands in foam, where else his pow'r Had in destruction whebn'd a bolder tow'r. Around it now the peaceful waters sleep, And Pleasure broods upon the smiling deep; Yet well can Memory the scene recall When, high above its iron-jointed wall. The frantic billows, scourg'd by tempests, rush'd, And, streaming, o'er its quaking lantern gush'd 1 And ah ! (sad retrospect ! ) not lost the date When, doom'd the victim of relentless fate, A hapless architect, with erring aim. Here, by a splendid pile to fix his fame. Met, in his stately tow'r, an early doom, And in the storm-crush'd structure found a tomb ! Mark where yon islet stands, enwreath'd with foam ; ( Time out of mind the sea-mews' native home ; Where, safe from man, and to the storm inur'd. Their callow broods were 'midst its cliffs secur'd ; ) Hard by, the streams, hrough winding paths that stray. Combining, form for Looe an ample bay. "1 h' attenuated l)ridge, with many a stride In ej^ularly .sj.aus the gurglinj tide ; CANTO II. THE SOUTHERN COAST. 48 And, as across its num'rous arches sweep. Appears some monster basking on the deep. The emulative sister-shores display A scene in Nature's fairfest colouring gay ; And Pleasure long shall linger on the view That greets the eye amidst the banks of Looe : Here, steep, majestic hills, successive rise. With gardens deck'd, and plants of cheerful dyes ; And often peeping 'twixt protecting trees. That brave the storm, but frolic to the breeze The peaceful cot, amidst the lively green, With Comfort's smile embellishes the scene. Near this, and where Trelawny's current plays, Meand'ring to the deep with fond delays, Trclawtiy and Polvethaii seem to vie, With claims distinct, to lure th' attentive eye. The first, adorn'd with boasts of distant years. Amidst the fresh, luxuriant spot, appears Like Age by Youth surrounded : Grave, serene, The view seems chasten'd by its sober mien. Vet Painting's Genius may, enraptur'd, hail The charms that decorate Trelawny's vale; And, on the warm and moving canvas thiong Sketches unsuilcd to the pow'rs of song. K 2 44 CORNUBIA. canto ir. Polvetlian's modern cottage, from the waste Rais'd and adorn'd by Lemon's fiuisli'd taste, Smiles o'er the sylvan landscape, and commands Whate'er embellishes the neighb'riug lands. Westward, where Fowey pours down a nobler strea, That proudly sparkles to the solar beam ; On bis gay banks what brilliant scenes appear ! Sweet to the view, and to the fancy dear. Lanhydroch first, in ancient splendour drest, Peers tlirough the veil of years that dims its croist; And still seems conscious of its former claim To lordly pomp and hospitable fame. There, clust'ring trees produce a pleasing gloom, And flow'rs campestral breathe a rich perfume ; "While the proud avenue invites the feet Of 3Ieditation to the lone retreat. And the rude gateway still to thought recalls Days when baronial splendour graced those walls. Here pause, and think as o'er th' impressive sccuf Pensive Reflection strays, with feelings keen, How vain the proudest boast of hall or bow'r, To shelter greatness from its waning hour ! Though here, erewhile, heraldic glories shone, And warlike stvains made provd Lanhydrock known iNTo ir. THE SOUTHERN COAST. 4 Amidst the bravest of its high compeers ; Lo I mutilated by the siege of years, Only sufficient of its pomp is seea To testify how high its rank has been ! Troy icas ! Before th' all-conquering hand of Fate, Crush'd are its honours, lost its site and date : Its princes, warriors, men of old renown, Sunk in the gloom that shrouds their vanish'd town; The poet's Jay, alone, preserves to Fame The void memorial of their empty name ! Thus hath Cornubia seen her lordly band, Renown'd in virtue, flourish o'er her land ; Thus, as the skirts of Time past ages shade. Beheld them in Oblivion's bosom fade ! Contiguous here, though now a ruin'd pile. Amidst a scene where Nature wears a smile, TicstormeV^ ivy-vestur'd, pond'rous wall, Strives with Neglect, and still protracts its fall. Firm on a rocky mound, in princely pride, The mould'ring mass at distance is descried ; And yet, pre-eminent, bestows a grace On either vale that winds around its base. The wooded hill, romantically gay, O'er roots protruding, yields a slipp'ry way ; E 3 45 tORNLBlA. CANTO u. And, through its op'ning vistas, brings to view Scenes calm and soft as 'er Arcadia knew. See, where the rapid Fotcei/, in bright display, Speeds through yon meadows his pellucid way, A long and beauteous course ! The fields around. Quaff vigour as he flows, and thence abqund With verdure's liveliest tints : The nodding trees, That track his progress, gently v.oo the breeze; Whilst those, more rugged, climbing yonder height Appear like armies must'ring for the fight. Now, where LostivithieVs, tasteful gothic spire Richly improves the scene, its waves retire Beneath the sweeping arch ; then, bui*sting wide. It swells, a river ! and, with ample tide "Winding 'midst distant hills of beauteous mould. Spreads to the suu its surface ting'd with gold ! Such scenes are thine, Restomiel ! and, though fled The honours that of old adoru'd thy head ; Though now thy wall, in gaping fissures rent. But seems thy former glory's monument; Imagination shall, delighted, dwell Around thy pile, while Ilist'ry loves to tell How Cornwall's princes, here, and barons buld^ U trc wunt the frequent festive hour to hold. CANTO 11. THE SOUTHERN COAST, If, still, the windings of the stream we trace. Scenes, rich and picturesque, in native grace Around us rise : Here, poud'rous crags are seen, Of giant stature and majestic mien : Low'ring, incumbent, o'er the timid wave. That gently heaves, their shagged feet to lave. There, softly-swelling hills, in ev'ry hue That Vegetation owns, delight the view. Superior charms their turgent bosoms bear. And brighter bloom their glowing blossoms wear. As Contrast marks the prospects wild and drear- That dimly in the distant ground appear. The hoary tow'rs, that, 'neath the mellow beam Of morn, or balmy eve, serenely gleam Through the translucent wave ; the eagle-fort, Cow'ring from eyry heights to guard the port ; The ruin'd chapel iiodding on yon hill, Though desecrated, venerable still ; Sweetly combine, beneath a genial sky. To form a picture, bright in ev'ry dye, Dear to the painter's and the poet's eye ! Westward, where Menabilli/'s massy pile jLooks o'er the deep-blue wave that guaixis our isle. 48 CORMJBIA. cakto ii. The sous of Science gladly stop to pore Ou the rich min'rals of Cornubia's shore ; AVliich, there ag^group'd, and class'd by skilful haud. In fair display, and varied figures stand. Nor will the eye of Admiration fail To trace the charms of its inviting vale ; Where, in a grot of pebble, crystal, shell. That quietly adorns the peaceful dell, Rashleigh's judicious Uiste hath well dispos'd The varied ores by Cornwall's mines disclos'd. Though, at a distance, loud the surges beat. And la^sh the surly cliff's unshaken feet ; The smiling wood that nearer spreads its shade, Proclaims the spot for Learning's vot'ries made. From tracts where Nature, oft enrich'd by Ait^-^ Presents her treasures to the glowing heart ; The Muse prepares as now her eye explores The ample bays and deep-receding shores Op'niug around, a diff 'rent theme to sing ; Pregnant with life, and novel to her string. CANTO ir. THE SOUTHERN COAST. I. Far extending o'er the deep. Where gentle Halcyon loves to sleep, See! arrang'd at distance due Where the hardy fisher-crew Moor their barks in long array. And anxiously await th' expected finny prey. II. 55tar of Night ! whose influence guides The flowing or receding tides. And, through sullen-heaving waves \ isit'st Ocean's deepest caves ; Amidst the shoals thy splendours pour, \nd guide them safely to Coruubia's shore ! HI. Lo ! they come ! By Instinct's force Here they bend their welcome coune. Alyriads of the sportive race. Shining bright in argent grace. Hither urge thtir destin'd way, '^uick'iiinj- the waters with their rapid play! # CORNUBIA, IV. On the cliffs and hills around Hear the huer's 4 joyful sound. As the lively, rippling tide Marks where shoals, unheeding, glide ; And the ocean's ruddy glow Combines their numbers and extent to show I V. Pressing forward to the spoil. While Hope excites to highest toil. The busy fishers quick prepare To cast the ample meshy snare ; Anxious who shall first attain The grateful present of the bounteous maif . VI. The sean is shot ! In circling course As boats obey the rowers' force. Extending far, with rapid sweep. Its leaden feet assail the deep ; The buoyant corks above, uphold And wide around expand its lengthen'd fold. CANTO II, ANTO II. THE SOUTHERN COAST. 51' VII. The captive fish, amaz'd, survey The corded fence that checks their way ; Affrighted view each changeful bark That casts a shadow long and dark Amidsts the waves ; their gambols cease, And sink into a state of troublous peace. vni. Ts^ow the crew, with nimble hand. Prepare to bring their prize to land. And swarms of little vessels glide. Lightly skimming, o'er the tide ; Prompt the captors' spoils to share. And to the shore the booty safely bear. IX. See ! along the spacious beach How the crowds, exulting, reach The friendly hand : Their ranks among Cheerful greetings pass along, As the prospect of the treasure Fills each swelling heart with honest pleasure. 5^ CORNUBIA. X. Ev'ry rank and ev'ry age The grateful subject can engage; Nought is silent, nought is still : Successive groups the prospect fill ; And Infancy and Eld unite To animate the scene so fair and bright, XI. Crowding round the scan's expanse The smaller vessels quick advance. And th' iraprison'd, finny hoard By nets and baskets draw on board ; While the struggling fish display A silver radiance lo the lunar ray. XII. 13y the restless-plying oar. To the bay and to the shore Long the boats pursue their way, Tiilj secur'd, the valued prey Shine in heaps along the strand Waiting the process of the ciu-rr's hunch CANTO II. CANTO II. THE SOUTHERN COAST. Sa xni. Soon, in strong-ribb'd casks confin'd. The fish, to distant coasts consign'd. Again shall cross the swelling main ; While Commerce, thus, with spreading reign, With foreign wealth and foreign store Shall aggrandise Britannia's trading shore. Such is the scene which Cornwall's Southern Coast, At annual periods, may with pleasure boast; And wheresoever the spreading bay, or port. Becomes of playful shoals the sure resort, { Which, urg'd by instinct, that propitious Heav'a Hath in its plenitude of wisdom giv'n, Migrating here, their native seas forsake And food and profit for the fisher make ) Boats, nets, and men train'd to the work, declare The pow'r of Enterprize that settles there. Declining westward, often we survey The jutting headland or the scooping bay Guarded by foam-blanch'd rocks, whose temples hoar Caution the mariner to shun the shore. But now a softer theme invites my song, A theme to which more polish'd lays belong. $4 CORTsUBIA. CANTO ir. See where, expanding o'er the creek-wrought laud, Vala's broad wave extends on either hand : O Muse ! be more than common care applied To sing the beauteous scenes that deck fair Vala's tide. Yet not Carhayes, whose thick, umbrageous wood, That throws a pleasing shadow o'er the flood; W'hose spacious park, to Mem'ry still displays Its proud pre-eminence in former days, Should be unsung. Though the old pile no more. In venerable pomp bedeck the shore, A richer edifice, in gothic pride And castellated pomp looks o'er the tide ; And soon, when Art shall end the rich design. In more than ancient state Carhayes shall shine. From Truro's busy port when now the tide. Upheaving o'er its btd v,hh gentle glide, Fonn'd a broad lake to vivify the scene. Reflecting wharfs, and trees, and hillocks green, Our bark directing, we pursued our way. Foretasting pleasure for a Summer's day. The crowded quay, the plain and tap'ring spire. Slowly receding, from the gaze retire ; And Kenwyn's rustic tow'r, that slierls a grac^ \Mi' rcvL-r A if w'd, no longer cun we (rare. ANTO n. THE SOUTHERN COAST. In mazy windings round the pointed shore We glide afar, and Truro shews no more. Scarce two short miles we pass, when now we vievir A sea-green freshness tinge the river's hue; And thence anticipate a nobler range. And shores diversified with ev'ry change Of aqueous beauty : On the deep'ning stream, Checquer'd with woods and crags, that softly gleam,- Our pinnace dances, as the rippling wave Delights her gaily-painted sides to lave. At anchor riding, or beside the quay, Th' industrious coaster often we survey, The drudge of commerce I Round our trading isle. Whether the billows roar or Heavens smile. This useful vessel takes her due resort. Supplying merchandize to ev'ry port. What though the pomp of war no more we boast, No din of battle thunder round our coast, No gallant frigate, proudly now display Her lengthen'd tier, in martial splendour gay r Contented we resign the clang of arms ; War has its glories, peace its milder charms. But yet, nut ahvays has this tranquil shore Been unresponsive to the cannon's roar : 56 CORNUBIA. cinto ir. When the eighth Henry fill'd Britannia's throne. And erePendennis was to Falmouth known, In Mopus Road a GalHc war-ship sought To slmn a fleet that for Iberia brought A merchant-freight ; but vainly here she flew, Her num'rous enemies her roui-se pursue. Staunch to their purpose. Like a stag at bay, Attacked on every side the victim lay ; Ami now, along tho tide, the mingled roll Of shouts and fires in dread confusion stole, Whilst wond'ring Naiads witness'd with amaze On their pacific waves, the frefjuent blaze ; And wood-nymphs, shudd'ring, to their deepest shad's Aff'righted fled, whilst horror fiU'd the glades. Full well tho Gaul maintain'd th' unequal fight. Nor vainly strove, for now, descending night Drew off his fi)e; and left him, maini'd, yet fres Again to dare the perils of the sea. As on we glide, diverging oft our course, As jutting points display thoir rocky force, Co!tipeliing the obedient stream to wind A tortuous way, ere yet the main it find ; At ev'ry (urn, pleas'd Admiration views S<'iaetli!i:g to charm and somt tiling to amiise; CANTO ri. THE SOUTHERN COAST. 57 And all of woodland sceneiy, unveiling In sweet succession, charms each finer feeling-. L'p yonder lawn, in Nature's liv'ry gay. Where bounding fawns their antic gambols play," Tregothnuns polish'd walls, of granite hue, In pleasing eminence, attract the view. Judgment and Skill the firm foundations laid, And Taste and Genius lent their willing aid To rear a pile, whose excellence should claim A lasting honour and superior fame. Modern the fabric ; but the artist's hand Exact to decorate the smiling laud. Bade ancient grace with later science meet, And join to form an edinre complete : Hence, proudly overtopping Gothic pride. Embattled turrets rise on ev'ry side, Whose fretted shafts and pinnacles bestow A novel charm on all the scene below. There the long corridor, in grand display. To rich saloons presents a splendid way ; And suites magnificent of gorgeous halls. With high-wrcught cornice deck'd, and moulded wJlS; (; >peak the fit abode of him, whose sire ( i;^M 1)V a Erifon's genuine patiiot fire ) &t CORNUBI/^. CANTO II. Oft from the Gaul, 'midst cannons' deaf 'ning roar. Bright laurels in thehr humbled banners bore. ! nobly done ! and long shall Hist'ry tell How brave Boscawen fought, and Frenchmen fell ; Tregothnnu's honours shall his deeds make known, And with her hero's praises blend her own ! Declare, Muse ! at what eventful hour Britannia's foes confess'd and felt his pow'r. Though of the noble house of Falmouth born, ^ And fitted ev'ry station to adorn ; Disdaining all the blandishments of Ease, He chose, in climes remote and dang'rous seas, To trace the path of Fortune and Renown, And add fresh wreaths to Albion's naval crown.' Proud Carthagena saw His vent'rous band ( Cheer'd by his presence, guided by his hand ) Through flame and carnage, scale the lofty mound'. And raze her strongest batt'ry to the ground. England resounded with the daring deed. And Truro crowu'd it with her civic meed. ^ Off Fiuisterre, with Anson's gallant crew. Again his brand the Cornish hero drew, Nor aim'd it vainly ; Gaul's disabled fleet Laid its paW honours at the conqu'ror's feet. CANTO 11- THE SOUTHERN COAST. The Eastern Ind confess'd his warlike flame. And strong Madras did homage to his name. Columbia mark'd him with a fearful eye When from her shores he scourg'd her proud ally ; Breton and Louisburg his valour prov'd. And own'd that Vict'ry in his progress mov'd. At length, so brilliant a career to close, And taste the well-earn'd blessings of repose, AVhilst in the Straits his meteor-banner flew, Th' ill-fated force appear'd of De la Clue. Swift he pursued ; and soon, in Lagos Bay, Commenced and brightly clos'd the dire affray ; And France long time deplor'd, in grief and shame, Three captur'd ships, and two a prey to flame. Returning from his long and arduous toit. To tread again his cherish'd native soil. Riches and rank his grateful country gave, St, 3Iichael sadly boasts th-e warrior's grave. ^ Enough ! The winding walks invite to stray Where changing prospects mark the devious way ; Immense plantations, spreading wide around. With youthful shadows scarcely tint the ground ; And, frequent seen, large groups of lofty trees', Peer o'er the hill, and intercept the breeze. V 2 60 CORNUBIA. canto ii. In Suimnei's heats, th' impending boughs extend Their wrealhy arms, and grateful shelter lend ; "NVhilst, from the flutt'ring leaves, the cheerful strain Of woodland harmony delights the plain ; The echoing hills the mellow notes prolong. And branches wave responsive to the song. If further roam the view, behold ! around Each varied charm of rural pride is found : The river, glancing 'twixt encroaching shores, The bark, soft-gliding to the well-tim'd oars, The hills, arrayed in many-tinted green, As Art or Nature's influence sways the scene, The strav.'-roof 'd cots that dot the cultur'd land, The ancient tow'r that decks the neighb'ring strand ; "Whilst distant mountains, fading from ili*^ vitw. Blend softly with tlie pure cerulean blue ! Piercing the Eastern shore with many a streak, And forming ricii dij:p!ays of bay and cretk. The Fal appears: Here first its op'ning tide Delights with other friendly streams to glide. Tor three long miles its peaceful waters wind M here Phiihtigh from Pcnkivel is (ii.Njoin'd; And 'neath the wooded shore, with fund delays, lis pure, translucei:t cuironl gently play v. CANTO n. THE SOUTHERN COAST. 61 Long; is its coui-se from where the Naiad pours. In Fenton Vala's urn, its infant stores. To where, diverging to the Southern coast It bursts into a bay ; the pride and boast Of Cornish ports ; with each advantage stor'd That to the mariner can aid afford. Where, now, its bulk, by different streams supplied, Becomes a spacious roadstead, safe though wide: A varied scene the op'ning shore displays. And Pleasure lingers in the ardent gaze. Trelissick, there, fair as the morning beam, Casts a rich lustre o'er th' admiring stream ; And to the smiling landscape lends a charm With each enliv'ning hue of beauty warm ! The mansion, elegantly form'd to show The graces, modern Science can bestow. Presenting to the south its aspect bright. Streams o'er the verdant lawn a softcu'd light I At distance due, clumps of majestic trees, Chequer the scene, and woo the sportive breeze ; And lengthen'd groves afford a mild retreat. Alike to Indolence and Genius sweet. Yonder, diverging from the spacious bay. Restrongxiet to the westward glides awaj--, F 3 62 CORNUBIA. akto u. Willing to share the more retiring view Of sylvan scenes that decorate Carcleiv ; AVhose granite front, rich in Ionic pride "Whose noble portico, expanding wide "Whose colonnades, of light and airy forms, Shelter from Summer's heats and Winter's storms, ^ Whose beauteous woods though interesting all For ev ry grace that may attention call With double charms, with higher praise are crown'd. Contrasted with the moors, wide spreading round. There, on the east, St. Just's prolific soil, With rich increase rewards the peasant's toil ; And from her fruitful bosom freely yields The choicest products of the fertile fields. Further, St. Mawd's its winding harbour shows ** And ancient castle, threat'ning to its foes. Lastly, the interesting scene to crown, Lo! ralmoiUK's, spacious road and long-drawn town . Falmouth, that, like an eagle, opens wide Its wings and talons ; (pencill'd by the tide;) On either van a fortress stands confest ; A foimidable rock defends the breast, Pei\()ling real worth by symbols well exprcss'd. "^ SiNTo lu THE SOUTHERN COAST. Ct^ See, where the liquid glass, extending o'er The ample bason, to each smiling shore Displays its glitt'ring surface, clear and bright, Shedding o'er all the scene a soft delight ! Stretching along its marge, in close array, Houses and wharfs commercial pride display. The noble terrace on the northern side Lifts its synemetric front in decent pride ; And the tall tow'r that marks the House of Pray'r, Gives to the whole its most important air. Here, old Arwenack, venerably grey. Shares, 'midst coeval trees, the smiling bay ; Trefusis there, that from the front retires. Embellishes the prospect it admires. Sweeping around, to guard the pleasant pier. See, to the south, Pendennis^ ramparts rear Their lofty foreheads ; and, in martial state. Point o'er the wave their engines, big with fate ! Enchanting spot I that gives the varied view In ev'ry pleasing form and lovely \i\i\i ! The Channel, here, its ample breast unveils, Bespeck'd with trading barks, whose snowy sails, That palely mark the still, reflective main, Appear like sh^jcp on some extensive plait> C4 COUNUBIA. CANTO ir. Hear ! from yon bark that slowly glides along, How sweet ascends the ship-boy's artless song ; ^Vhose lengthen'd strains wide o'er the waters swell. Echoed b}' jutting cliff or hollow dell ! llow clear the sky ! how soothing, soft, and slow, The little waves break on the beach below! Or, mild retiring fioni the printless sand, AVith uiilk-wliite kisses blanch the shelving strand I Gentle, yet glowing, is the noon-tide beam, !Solt dancing on the wave that courts its gleam ; \\ hose tranquil bosom, in capacious sweep E:vt(.i)(!ii,g, seems l.ke Ueauty suidi to sleep : There, wat'ry mists deceive the straining siyhl, And azure clouds and azure waves unite. "NVlicn civil warfare ve\M this aching land. And son to sire (ippos'd th' un'aatural handj Fendeniiis faithfully the party chose Of Truth ai;d Loyalty : Its rebel foes Long time, in vain, by rigorous blockade To bend it to their trail'rous arms essay'd, Nor gain'd, at last, their end, till Famine gaunt Appear'd, its brave and sturdv ranks to datnit. In vam tlnv ]ing( r'd for the wish'd supply Tiieir sloi'js v. ere emntv aiul their fountains drv : CANTO H. THE SOUTHERN COAST. 65 iS'or could procrastinating Hope, that still At distance lov'd to shew th' impending ill, Longer the di-ead realities suspend. Nor from Submission's pang their breasts defend : With sullen indignation, to the blast They bow'd ; but Honour cheer'd them to the last. AVhile now, to dignify a rising age. Instruction, ev'iy side, unfolds her page ; While matters pregnant with a nation's fate Become the common theme of low debate ; While each rude hand is rashly rais'd to mark Or regulate the Constitution-Avk, And purblind Zeal, with innovating pride, Approves no system ^save the one untry'd ; Grant, gracious Heav'u ! that ne'er may party rage Sway an enlighlen'd but ungiateful age To rebel-deeds ; but Order's golden chain Unite the virtuous, and the vile restrain. Britain, amongst the nations greatly bless'd. { By freedom, fame, and wealth raio'd o'er the ixsr. Demands a progeny well skill'd to soar Above the demagogue's deceitful lore, And who, by worthy deeds, shall clearly s.h(.\r How well their high immunities they know. 66 CX)RNIIBIA. canto ii. Such be her future race ! and Hist'ry's page Point them th' exemplars of each coming age ! May Pow'r and Mercy equally preside, The State to govern, and the Church to guide ; And Britons' praise to all the world be known- True to their Altars, faithful to their Throne ! END OF TME SECOND CANTO, CORNUBIA. CANTO HI. Cfte iSTotttettt oroaet* THE ARGUMENT. General Description. Rocks, caves, and sands. Perraii Beach. St. Agnes, The War Beacon. Tchidy. Tintagcl Island and Castle J the birth-place of Kin^ Arthur. Historical Notices, A Storm. A Ship in Distress. Her imminent Danger. The Tempest moderatep. CORNUBIA. CANTO III. CID^ j^^ottl^ern - Whcre rich abundance crowns the peasant's toil ; \Vhere all around is lovely, all is fair, Wooing' the pow'rs of Taste to linger there ; Turn, O unwilling Muse! Expand thy wing; Prepare a graver lay, a deeper string, As, round the Northern shore, in Horror dight. Pensive thou bend'st t!iy melancholy flight. Tempests, and clouds, and vapours hover round ; -And the ear tingles to the boist'rous sound 70 CX)RNUBIA, canto iit. Of hoarse, rough Ocean, while, with blust'rir^ voice. His waves erect their heads, and loud rejoice Before the whistling gale, whose dreadful pow'r Scourges them onward to the rock-bouhd shore ! O Muse ! pourtray, for thou hast oft survey'd The fierce attacks by mountain-billows made ; And, sailing down the coast, hast shrunk to hear The elemental jars that vex'd thine ear, While simm'ring waves, that lawless seem'd to roam, Have blanch'd the coast in one vast sheet of foam ; Nor less hast view'd, from the tremendous strand. With rocks bespr^nt, that lines the dreary land, The storm's terrific sway ; while o'er the deep With wide-spread wing. Destruction seem'd to sweep ; And the strain'd bark, vex'd by the troublous main. Has striv'n to shun the fateful coast in vain, While angry billows, with appalling roar, Have forc'd her to the wreck-abandon'd shore ; Pourtray th' impressive scene ; its rocks, its ( aves, Its pond'rous cliffs, round which the tempest ravts With impot(-iit accoil ; its shriving sands, Its sullen capes, and unproductive lauds; Till I-'ancy with a chilling awe surveys 'Hie sombre view, vni] shudders but to gaze '. ANTo III. THE NORTHERN COAST. 7r Lo ! where the solemn vision opens wide ! Stretching along a vast, a sad extent. By nought but diiF'rent risks diversified,-;- See where the rugged Northern Coast is bent In many a jagged bay ! Here rocks present Their shaggy brows, with sea-weeds turban'd o'er ; And headlands, in tremendous figures rent, Repel the wave that threats the startled shorey Or, through their lengthen'd caves, rebellow to its roar ! ir. From where Moorwinstow^s dreary hills ascend In barren pride, above the swelling sea. To where (a fearful length !) the bleak Land's End Rises abrupt in rudest majesty, 'Tis all an iron coast ; and hapless he Whose bark too closely, 'midst the tempest's pow'r Tends to the shore: No nautic skill may free His ship from peril, which in Fate's dire hour Threatens on ev'ry wde,-^impetuous to devour. 72 CORNUBIA. III. CANTO iir. ^Viiat though the hayen, or the frequent bay> Proffer security, if, from the maio, And from the g-ale that overhastes his way. The welcome anchorage he may attain ? Yet dangers press him round ; here, mariv'd in vain. The long, deceitful bar in ambush lies ; There, treach'rous quicksands shift their faithless plain And there the sturdy rock, of fearful size. Stands like a surly host, and all access denies. IV. From where ,SV. Iia*s open harbour ^ yielJb' A ready ingress to Ih' encroaching tide. To where, o'er Padslow's hills and cultui'd fields, Romantic groves wave rich in vernal pride, Kinhcllisliin^- tlie scene on cither side; Vast srindy j/ih s the trav'iler oft may see, To many a lengthen'd furlong spreading uide ; Sad fruit of storu!" ! that, from their caves set free, To inar the sii A ridge of I'jug-cxtendiug n^iounds divide,?, TT '* II \} 94 CORNUBIA. tAKTO iv Ijut naked all, and sterile; to the eye Presenting- nouglit but Nature's poverty. Yet, though the landscape thus is sad and drear, Though seldom Cultivation's charms appear The picture to improve, save where is seen The late inclosure, clad in sickly green, ^Vhich but contrasts the cheerless heath and Uioor, And bhcAvs their chillness greater than before: - Yet, even here, hath Nature, not unkind. Though cold her aspect (as sometimes we fiad A rude exterior veil a Heavenly mind ) Such treasures hid, as justly may engage The wonder of the philosophic sage. The higher hills, that bear a granite brow. In precious niin'ral stores abound below. And hence Cornubia's sons incessant raise The ores that speak the county's sterling jiraisc. Tin, \\liich, when from its kindred rock di^join'd, And by a vaiitd process well refni'd. Glitters in silver pride amidst the ground In m;iss'S rich and inunerniis is found; And, V. i!h a ruby glatic", frfmi cluyiy bed. ^f 'J M-'.^'i'.i- copj't T smile in l^lu-liii;^- rtd. eANTO IV. THE MOORS. 95 Diverging hence, where lesser hills arise. The frequent mine invites the traveler's eyes, Where rich varieties of fossil worth Daily are to the wond'ring view brought forth. Oft, too, as o'er th' extended wild we gaze. The hoary monuments of ancient days, { Rear'd in those times ere Science yet had birth, AVhen rugged Naiure sway'd alone the earth, ) Shall we explore; while Admiration, bending 111 fix'd attention, to each form is lending Fancy's fantastic robes ; pleas'd to display Visions that Genius kindles to survey. These be our present theme : And ye v/ho best Have mark'd the features of Cornubia's breast, Judge if the Muse, unequally recite The novel subjects that inspire her flight, As, in a lay irregularly bold, She seeks those various prospects to unfold. See where Si. C'leer displays her sacred dome, * St. Cleer, the British antiquarian's home ; Where though no fresh'ning verdure smile around On ev'ry rocky eminence is found ( I'nmarr'd by Art) Invention's rudest forms, Urnviug, iji naked strengtli, the fiercest stornxain ; And, influenced by ghostly fathers' charm, Drpn\c malignant sprites of pow'r tu harm ! Thcugh now dispell'd by pure Keligion's beam- The boast be justly lield an idle dre;i:n, And, siii[)l of Superstition's artful tale, The dtstc rated fount uiiljonour'd wail ; The ivitd wall, and cross of stone, that show "Where, still, its cool, translucid waters flow. At ouce shall draw the sigh and wreathe the smile. For maii's cfululity, ami popish guile I >'on(kr, llie Iluiicrs' iiilerciieliug rlnps ' Of rud(; y\i<\v: j>ilLr.> ^uihl, Uiis^haptii things I j*erplc\ ihe |ii\!iig antiquarian brain 7h' ir former ij.-inii a;;d nature 'o r\!!i;iii;. CANTO IV CANTO IV. THE MOOU. d7 x\ear these, Trevethy's lone, funereal sloue * The burial-place of Cornwall's king makes known : Its granite substance, aud its cromlech form, Have long, nninjur'd, mock'd the ruthless storm, And, haply, shall to distant years pieclaim The monarch's fate, although it shroud his fame. Hard by, expos'd upon a barren hill, ^Vhose brow and sides rough rocky masses fill, The Wring in figure an inverted cone ^ Stands bleak and high ; of origin unknown ! No human pow'rs ( while yet machin'ry's aid Slept in the gloom of intellectual shade ) Could raise those blocks, so por.dcrous and vast, AVith such precision, to defy the blast; And in what mood was Nature v/hen she deiga'd The pile to rear, has Science noi. txplain'd. Eight massy stones the spreading heap compose. Rudely increasing, these, and Itps'ning fho:ic. Small rocks, that seem unequal to the frcigiit, .Supporting others of superior weight '\nd more f ulavg'd dimensions, iill the mind With admiiation and aPiVight combinV!, As tlic o'erhanging masse.-;, stretching v/ids. Appear to threaten ruin tlthei- ;vle. 5>S CORNUBIA. CANTO iv. Six times the height of man the pile ascends: And as the top-stone o'er the summit b.nds, Alarm'd Imagination hears the sound That brings the crashing burden to the ground. Vain fear ! What though its lofty brow, uneven, Appear to totter to the breath of Heav'n, Compression binds its strength : Ileie, bulk resists O'erbearing breadth ; and thus, th' antagonists, Exerting, either side, a strong controul, Consohdate and duly poise the whoh; ; Firm as a rock on earth's foundations bas'd, Remains this nat'ral wonder of the waste ! West'ring from this, inclos'd 'mid heath-clad hills, That in its bason pour their petty rills, And thus, to muring Contemplation shovv ^) hat great effects from trivial springs may flow, Expanding o'er a hollow, wide and deep, I)ostnari/'s sluggish, sullen waters sleep, ^ And, by their torpid state and chilly air, Tlie batiefid force of liidoloiice declare. Vet (f!, ^ as aniniafion warms the breast A) lii'n, nil *aiigut-(i, the body hes at rest ) 'jt!'j;i;:h i!s smooth face no sign of motion s-luw, r!)ci!ri'.."-'d hv luDcir sv, ;iv to hi'.'.h or low ) ANio IV. THE MOORS. 9'>) Amidst the pool, bright gleaming to the day, Swift-darting eels their silver coats display. And tempt the angler, with a patient hand. And fraudful hook, beside its marge to stand; Whence from th' abundant waters well supply'd. As to the baited snare his victims glide, Returning, he enjoys the luscious treat, By wholesome exercise made doubly sweet. Extending wide, where roams the eye around. In dull monotony the Moors are found Vestur'd in dwarfish heath : Yet not this scene ( Albeit unenrich'd with pastures green ) Lacks total int'rest : Often to the view The distant, lofty hill, with summit blue. And rugged granite torrs, is seen to rise ; - Faintly discern'd amidst incumbent skies. Here oft, with mingling noise of hound and horn Startling the calm of meditative morn, To chase the timid hare, the coursiri"- Ira'a On flying steeds rush o'er th' elastic jiLiir; ; And ihu.":., by acts of manly skill, eiisuie H' iJth Hk'.' their uati-, e breezes, Ktron'r and pure. JOO CORNUBIA. CANTO iv, 1. Nigh where majestic Hensb'rough stands, The pride of Cornish mounds ; From which th' astonish'd eye commands A scene that scarce knows bounds : Uprising- fi-om a barren heath, Abrupt, and vast, and high ; Roche Rock ~ surveys the ground beneath With cold, unkindred eye. Amidst a wild and moss-clad wa5te His granite brow ascends; And o'er the {lain, by flow'r ungraccd. A lenglh'ning shiduw lends. 1. .\nd Science ion-- '}i;i!l wond'ring seek j; .',v, bare (o ev'ry stdnn (Ju eruth as unaliied as bleak, Ar'.-f its str.'in:'T-r-f'-r;:i, CANTO IV. THE MOORS. 101 5. Projecting o'er the rock's rough side, With plain, yet graceful brow ; An ancient tow'r, in lonely pride. Nods to the waste below. 6. Besieg'd by elemental wars, To ev'ry blast a prey, The fabric shews the num'rous scar.? Of Time and slow decay. 7. Its roof, its casement, and its doors^ Have yielded to the storm ; Wild as the wide-surrounding moors,. It stands, a ruin'd form. S. The rank grass wavers o'er its walls ; Its base is fill'd with weeds ; Yet there no loathsome vermin crawl?. No pois'nous reptile breeds : 102 CORNUBIA. canto iv. 9. 'Tis silent all, and lone as death. Save -when the rising gJile Indignant howls, with hollow breath.. And dares the pile assail. 10, Yet still enough remains to tell What name the building bore; Beneath, a hermit's lonely cell, A moiikl'ring chapel o'er. 11. Still, peering through its eastern side The arching window's seen ; Beneath the op'ning that supplied A feeble ray within. 12. And here, of old, the world shut out > A holy man retir'd, And, by austerities devout, A sainted fame acquir'd. CANTO IV. THE MOORS. 108 13. Seldom he left his lonely cell To pace tiie neighb'ring wild ; Content, in solitude to dwell, To mis'ry leconcil d. 14. Yet oft, at midnight's solemn hour, When Nature lay asleep ; He climb'd his isolated tow'r To watch, and pray, and weep ; 1. And deem'd the world and all its toys Well lost, so he might find, 'Midst Contemplation's sober joys. The sunshine of the mind 16. The hermit sleeps in his clayey bed, His name, his date unknown ; Unmark'd the spot where rests his head, Unhonour'd bv a stone : 104 CORNUBIA. Canto iv. 17. liut Fancy shall his forriT recall, liis penitence severe ; ^^'hile Pity o'er his woes lets fall The sympathetic tear. I. But see! where rising o'er the barren waste- Rob'd iu the dun array of ancient years, Its hoary brow with sacred relics graced, Carnbre's majestic outline dim appears ! II. Who has not heard the aged mountain's f nie ' Who, when of Druid rites and legends grey The story ran, expected not the name (To crown the whole) of reverend Cuinbit"- : III. Record of di-taut i'j:es ! which nor Tinid IVor vandal foe can of t!iy trust d-^sp' il ; Doom'd to pre^evve, on thy tall brow suhiime. Each moniHiifi't of riiici'nt Brit'^h toil : CANTO IV. THE MOORS. 105 IV. The altar, fortress and the rock-made grave. Where ere the torch of Truth its light display'd- The priest, philosopher, and warrior brave Their precepts issued, and their pow'rs array'd : V. Thee let me visit oft ; and whilst I wind Around thy mossy cairns and craggy steeps ; In pensive musings sadly call to mind The mystic age that now in darkness sleeps. VI. Though, from the dizzy height and fearful wild Where nods ihy mor.ld'ring castle, proudly rais'd On shapeless rocks, in dread disorder pil'd, f .oug is the lapse since kindling beacons blaz'd : VI !. Though now, no more, to thy unsculptur'd cairn The martial youth delights to bend his way; Anxious from vet'ran lips th' exploits to learn Of those who conquer'd on some glorious day : IOC CORNUBIA. CANTO iv. VIII. Though thy deracinated oaks uo nioi-K Shelter grim Incantation's wizard band ; And heath and shrubs possess the place, of yore "Where consecrated groves were wont to stand : IX. Though tlie dim mantle of departed yeara Wrap evVy feature in a mournful gloom ; And o'er each desolated spot appears A sacred awe congenial to the tomb : X. Yet, oft as Genius shall hare pow'r to stray, From worldly cares and sordid int'rests free ; Shall he, o'erjoy'd, his constant visit pay Mountain of Druid eminence ! to thee. XI. Ha ! wliile I ppeak, before my wond'ring eyes Visions of ages far remote unfold ; Long, tufted groves, in solemn grandeur rise, ; And all the mount assumes its boasts of old ' cAXTo IV. THE MOORS. 107 XIT. Slowly advancing from their rocky cells, Appear tlie venerable priestly train ; A solemn silence on the mountain dwells. And holy Terror there asserts her reign. XIII. In sad procession, 'neath their rev'rend oaks, With downcast eyes they bend their pensive way, To M'here their chief, whose care their aid convokes, Sees them prepar'd his edicts to obey. XIV. Behold the gorseddau, the hallow'd place "Whence the Arch-Druid, in pontific state, (Soften'd by Aga and Learning's winning grace \ Was wont to utter the behests of Fate. XV. The sacred eminence he now ascends, ; Ills silver beard streams loosel}' to the wind ) Awhile in silent meditation bends, Then thus reveals the workinsrs of his mind : I 2 lOS CORNLBIA. canto iv. XVI. " Ye pious brothers ! share the heart-felt grief " That rends this aged breast, while 1 declare " A tale of horror that derides relief, " Of woes ill which we claim an equal share. XVII. " The gods, whom we so often have invok'd " iS'eglect our pray'rs ! No more 'lis mine to hear " ( While all the world around by Night is cloak'd } " Their soft-breath'd oracles direct mine ear ! XVIII. " See 1 even He that rules the cheerful day, " In clouds withdrawing, shrouds his courted smile ! " His sister-light lends but a useless ray " To aid us in the night's laborious toil I XIX. " In \ain, on ctlier ]:ow'rs that blaze around, " For their celestial influ( iice 1 cali ; " " No voice, no sip^n, no inild resp; n>e i> found; " Mofioni iijicrutable di;ect tucm ail ! CANTO IV. THE MOORS, 109 XX. " Methought. as late, within my cavera'd home, " While Sleep's soft influence seal'd each other eyc> " I gave my thoughtl'ul view at large io roam *' Amidst the sparkling wonders of the &ky : XXI. " Bright, In the East, a stranger-star appear'd; ** And o'er th' expanse difFus'd so sweet a ray, '* That Heav'n and earth were by its lustre cheer'd, " While fainter fires, unheeded, died away ! XXII. " I mark'd it long, and deem'd some other pow'r " Amongst the gods was born ; a kindling flame " Inclin'd my breast, admiring, to arlure " The beauteous form, althoiigh unknown his name . XXIil. " When lo ! transforming to a sanguine Cross ' O'er all the world he pour'd so rich a light, ' Though fled each other beam, none mark'd the loss '* But joyful nations hail'd the welcome .sight ! 110 COR.NUBIA. CANTO iv. XXIV. ' What this may mean, 1 know not : If no more " 'Tis ours to hoiu high converse with the sky ; " If vainly on the starry frame we pore, " Or seek iu Naturt'ii secret laws to pry ; XXV. " If so the gods, in wrath severe, decree, " Against their will 'twere madness to rebel ; " But that our hapless eyes such days should set '' Dilates my breast with agonizing swell. XXVI. " If aught in me the pow'rs supreme o/itini, ' And my unconscious faults their justice note, '' A willing victim, at their shrines 1 bend ' A cheerful sacrifice myself devote, xxvn. " Fain would I yet one final effort make, " Onr sacred rites and customs to revive, " This letlifiigy from Nature's pow'rs to sliakt, ^' Aiiu luiii;- hi'v woi:t,d cnrr^ies alive. CANTO IV. TFIE MOORS. Ill XXVIII. " But where a suited victim shall we find, " Proud to obtain a patriot-martyr's crown ? " Lo ! foreign lords our wills and actions bind, " And blood unpaid excites the Heav'ns' dire frown ! XXIX. " Ah ! even now at distance I behold, " As on they march in terrible display ; " Rome's conqu'ring legions their wide hosts unfold, " While Britons feebly struggle, and obey ! XXX. *' Hither they come ! this last, remote retreat " Of British worship, rudely to invade : " Soon by the trampling of unhallow'd feet, "" Shall foul Pollution all its glories shade ! XXXI. " And soon I dread to hear, beneath the stroke " Of hostile implements, successive fall " Each sacred, misletoe-invested oak, " While Ruin's plough-share fiercely levels all ! 112 CORNUBIA. CANTO iv XXXII. " No more the altar, nor the hero's grave, " ( Rev'reiicecl so long) shall awful homage claim : " When o'er their heads you branches cease to uavc, " What shall preserve their honours or their fame? XXXIII. " Fly, 'orothers, fly I These rocks no aid afford ; *' In flight, alone, is found your safest course ; " When Pov/'r invincible disphiys the sword, '' Justice and Right must bow before its force." XXXiV. Yes ! all arc tied ! The priests, the groves, no more Can fond Imagination feign to see ; Carnbre presents his summit, wild and hoar. In all its native, dreary majesty I XXX^. Yet let not Rome the indignation bear Of patriot-warmth, allliuugh her hardy hand-. { Lrg'd by Ambition ) here she sent, to dare Our sires to ecin'.ntt whh unecnicd IkmiU. CANTO ir. THE MOORS. H3 Xxxvi. Conquest before them strode, but in their rear ( Where, now, sucli gen'rous vlciors shall we find ? ) The gentler hrms of Knowledg'e lov'd t' appear : She bow'd the body but enhrg'd the mind. XXXVII. Hence Britain, now alike in arms and ails Pre-eminent, outrivals Roman fame ; Justice directs her sword, and grateful hearts Of ransom'd myriads join to praiije her name ! If still-Iife scenes too long' the eye engage ; If cold it wander o'er the faithful page "Where nought of beauty may adorn the song, I)ut forms uncouth in changeful numbers throng ; - liiame not the Muse ; but rather, justly deem IJer labour arduous on the rugged llir me. Can Fancy's flow'rs 'midst rocks and mountains grc>v : Doc s bright Helconia through a desert flow ? Soft scenes, bedeck'd in Nature's gay altirc, Kiiidrcd emotions c;er will inspire ; 114 CORNUBIA. CANTO iv But when, around, the landscape dreary Hes, The feeling freezes, and Invention dies. The faithful Muse, to Nature's aspect true, Dehghts each scene to paint in genuine hue : Pursue her steady course ; haply thine eye May gayer tints and richer figures spy ( Ere she the pleasing labour will resign ) AVherc bright Imagination's forms may shine. Meanwhile, her lay presents another scene, Though vast, not niolionUss ; though wild, not mean , O'er which, Cornubia's sons will fondly dwell, And well appreciate what she strives to tell. Oje iBiur. I. Vv'iae spreading o'er an aniple waste, V,y Cultivation's arts liugraced, AVIicrr notiglit of verdure may be tracci\ l]i;t ali around is drear; Oi-iii.guidiM by huge, heaps (.fore, Ai'.J [ji'.ts of .'-moke, and ca!)iiis poor. \ii(l \:\\\ n)a( l:;:i'ry's niint;!-'d ronr, r.,h w! ;')C Mine a-)-)- :>r ' CANTO IV. THE MOORS. 116 II. Important to !;>';'. CANTO IV. THE MOORS. 117 VI. Ev'n now, the ground whereon I stand, And all the active scene command. Haply, below, by venl'rous hand Is scoop'd in thousand ways; The deep-sunk shaft, expanding wide, The adits, branching from its side, The drifts that to the metals guide, 3 Declare Adventure's praise ! vn. But who would tempt the depth profound Who, leave the pleasing view around. And through the labyrinthian ground His lonely journey take ; Resign the cheerful light of day. Plunge into chasms of grim display. And, whilst thick perils line the way. Onward his progress make ? 118 CORNUBIA. CANTO xr. VI 11. Darings the deed ! Yet Custom's reign. That bids the sailor tempt the main, The soldier, in the marshall'd plain. Affront the shafts of Death ; Inures the miner, 'midst the gloom His daily labours to resume. And in a temporary tomb Inhale mephitic breath ' IX. Far from the chee/iag solar beam?:, Far from the day's, unheeded gleams, Amidst the gush of ceaseless streams Ik, heedless, winds his way ; Nor le!;gth remrite, nor deplh profound,"^ Nor (.bstarles ag'^'rr.iijt'd around, Nor clankii'.g engine^' bcist'rous sound, His licsdin tan disniav. CANTO IV. THE MOORS. 119 X. His lonely taper's feeble light Aids him to guide his steps aright, To where the metal, gleaming bright, Demands his arduous toil ; Then clangs the pick ; and from the rock By many a persevering shock Dissever'd, falls the massy block That bears the valued spoil. XI. Sometimes he trusts the nitre's pow'r ; The charge is fir'd ! with awful roar The mine resounds ! in dceadful show'r Tlie rattling fragments fly ; 'Jhe sluggish airs, condens'd that lay. And diinm'd his faint and struggUng ra}-,- Jorced upward, feel the breath (if diiy And kinder pow'rs supply. 120 CORNUBIA. canto iv. XII. Well skill'd in stone or clay to trace The semblance of metallic grace. Whose diff 'rent hue proclaims the place Where fossil wealth abounds ; Earth's arteries he thus explores ; And from her rich and varied stores, His we'il-rais'd hopes of costly ores On sure experience founds. XIII. Thus, Skill and Industry combiu'd. Can ever fruitful labours find. And cheer the philosophic mind With tlnmes of true delight ; A'-; from tbo !n)\vtls of llie land, \\\\h steady aim and vi^'roiis hand, \\ lios(.' coinrt; no obs'.arirs wilhstand. They biiii;,' lur v.ealth ia si:jiit. ';4NTo IV. THE xMOORS. 121 XIV. And hence, Cornubia, though she deem But lightly of the loose esteem Of flow'ry vale and purling stream. By other counties known, May well in this maintain her pride; Her worth, to nought extrinsic tied. By her own treasures is supplied ; Rich in her soil alone ! rVD OK THE FOIRTH CiNTO, CORNUBIA. CANTO V. ^fic mimexn iftosi^U K U THE ARGLMEiNT, After a short Proem, complaining of the Negiuot of modern Genius, the Canto opens with a Morning View of the Mount's V-ay. Marazion. St. Michael's jNIount. Historical and legendary No- tices relative to its Figure and Name. The Lizard. The Soapy Rock. Kynan's Core. Address to Nature. Tiie Loe Pool. Pen- gerswick Castle, and Godolphin Hall. Penzance, and the adjacent Scenery. General Description of the ancient Monuraertts, &c. abounding in the West Castle Treryn. The Loggan Stone. The Wlutsand Bay. Cape Cornwall. Botailack Mine. The Scilly Islands. The Land's End. Concluding Reflections. CORNUBIA. CANTO V. Cl&e WLtMetn Coa^t* Yet once again, O Muse ! assume the lyre ! Yet once again, with well-attemper'd fire. Waken a note which may each bosom warm That throbs responsive $o the varied charm Of Nature, to Cornubia's features given,- Enchanting awful desolate uneven. If, as of these you sung, the votive song' Won kind attention from her native throng ; With greater int'rest will they yet attend The scene where all those rival beauties blend ; 12 CORNUBIA- tANTo V Where, round the borders of her Western B*y, In rich magnificence, and proud display, Cornubia concentrates the diff'rent boasts Of fair or terrible that mark her coasts. A time there was, in Britain's gen'rous days, ( When worth was eminence, and genius praise ) Whep the meek Minstrel, whether he his way Pursued by lady's bow'r or castle grey, ^^'as sure howe'er his wand'ring feet tnight roam ' 'Neath ev'ry roof to find a friendly home. Moth inks I see him, as he careless strays, O'er sunny hill, basking in noon-tide rays. With lyre across his shoulder loosely thrown ; By all respected for his art alone. All day he sits by some romantic strcini, Indulging Inspiration's magic dream; (>r on some cliff sequesitr'd, vast, and steep, Charms by his strains the distant murm'ring deep. When sinks the flanii^ig day-star in the West, He seeks, nor vainly sustenance and rest. Where'er the smoke, biue-risiug through the trees. Denotes the residence of rural ease, Phim'd warriors, <^iii\U; dames, around lilni iLroiij;, A'.i'l .'.!1 ti.e vi]]; (!(,-tr:.i:i adore liis song: CANTO V. THE WESTERN COAST. IXf Unkuown to care lie spends his bljlhesome days, /\iid pay; his entertainment with his lays. And &S"i, ;;{ later years, Ih' historic page proudly vi: ., i;- iiiuaiii's AugUatan age; When, though the MinstrePs name no more were knowB, 7'A Poet e'er had suited honours shown. When those by Rank and Fortune greatly graced. But higher blest by Judgment, Sense, and Taste, Deem'd it their proudest boast, their richest treat. The sons of Genius in their halls to greet ; And rationally all their pow'rs unbend The lore of wit or \\isdom to attend; Delighted, converse with those minds to hold. Rich wrought with Fancy's pow'rs from Nature's moultt. Though fled those seasons, never to return; Though sordid minds the claims of Merit .spurn ; Though scarce a breast to Feeling's throb be luov'd Unless the lay by Fashion be approv'd ; Remembrance of respect to Geni}>? pajti Shall soolhe his offsjjiring- in th' unhoiioui'd shade. And Virtue's tears the pleasure shall prolong, And consecrate the unrejjarded sons:. J2 (ORXUBIA. CANTO V The breeze, lightly sweeping- the arnj of the oceaa That circles yon islet, gives frtshness aud motion To all the expanse that so late lay asleep, Reflecting the lustre of lieav'n to the deep. ' For there, when fair Luna, in chastity's whiteness (I'aird forth the pure stars to rejoice in her brightnes;;, The eye of warm Fancy delighted to view Its colours, soft tuiich'd to eiherea! hue ! She thought, as the gaz'j oi" devotion she gave To the blight coruocatioiis that spangied the wave, "While shadowy vapours, the landscape concealing, To Extacy's impulse awaken'd each feelii.g-, That already, in air, aihidst spirits made holr. She muv'd, far froni earthly contentious and folly I For so mild was the ray that the Heavens bestow'd, So pure tlie reflection from ocean that glow'd, That above, and beneath, all was softness and pleasure, 'Tvvas silence, and rapture, and joy beyond measure I The vision is broken ! th' e;;chantment is fled ! The fountain of iii;lit o'er yon liiil lifts his head ; And traces, in characters bjilJiant and clear, lljt biigiit 1;:i:1js oi'dav, wLicli aiouiid me apjn ai'. CANTO V. THE WESTERN COAST, m Behold the splendid scene ! Before the eye Prospects so rich and variegated lie. That bounding Fancy, ever prone to roam. Expatiates wildly, nor can choose a home ; Whilst ev'ry object that salutes the sight Is pregnant with the germs of pure delight ! Here, the small town, known to Phoenicians old. Who for Coruubia's tin brought wares and gold. Though circumscribed within the narrowest bounds. Though neither trench nor wall her site surrounds. To records most antique she lays her claim, And on commercial candour builds her fame. Ah me ! since here the Tyrian pilot bore liis rude-hewn vessel from his native shore. And taught Britannia's ever-vent'ious train^ In quest of foreign stores to cross tlie main ; How many centuries have sunk in gloom, How many generations fill'd the tomb ! Phoenicia I once th' emporium of tlie world, A\'here are the tokens of thy greatness hurl'd? Alas ! diminish'd to an empty name. Thou but snrviv'st upon the breath of Fame ! Yet Marazion stands ; and though no more T'ly i.ading lessels anchor round her shore. 130 CORNUBIA. canio t. All who her unobtrusive features see, PhcBnicia ! the memorial trace of thee ! Enough of this I St. MichaeV% honour'd mounJ,- Begirt with rocks, with lofty turrets crown'd. Invites attention. Starting from the main. And proudly peering o'er the liquid plain : It emblems, to the contemplative mind. Greatness with mild benignity combin'd Its base is lav'd by the Atlantic flood, Its sides still bear the spoils of th' ancient wood; For, in diverse confusion, ev'ry side, , Clumps of old trees o'erlook the glassy tide. Tremendous rocks, in wild disorder c^st, Trown o'er its jutting crags, and mock the blast. Midway, where massy piles are rudely ^trow'd, A fortress stands to guard the rocky road; And on the mountain's summit, steep and iiigli, Where consecrated turrets pierce the sky, Endjattled walls and arching casements throw . A i)leasiug r;iuiaiice o'er the scene below. ('oriiubia's jc\v(.I, hail ! 'Midst waves profound, A\ hicii, like a silver cliasiug, sf t thee round, 'i'liou staiurst majestic ; as the richest gem That ?i';i:kles in old Oceuifs diadem. CANTO V. . THE WESTERN COAST. 131 Neptune and Terra, proud to share thy fame, To thy possession urge a rival claim. 'Tis said ( and legends prove Ihe story true ) That erst, 'midst forest-hills thou cheer'dst the vivjw ; Thence, proudly looking on the distant flood, Flouricird, the monarch of ihe l.oary wocd. Till, by a mighty tempest, all tl.e ground 'Ihat form'd thy vallies lay subnie;g d around, \Vhilst the encroaching watei-s learnt I': glide Through the new channel, and r'.ficct thy pride. Deep frown'd the sky ; the clouds a de'nje pourM : Elue lightnings pierced the land; hoarse thunders roar'd ; And all the elemental hosts, at war. Spread consternation and destruction far. Anon the tott'ring earth began to fail : Down sunk her wooded slopes ; and through the val^. Thus rudely form'd, the swelling billows guslrd. And ev'ry weak, opposing barritr, crush'd. On the broad main, the sport of ev'rv bkstj Thy leafy vassals were at random (:a^t. riic waves, coagulated by the soil, IVo more amidst the fearful wreck could tud, But lagg'd inert ; and doubtful still li^d stood '/'lie issue of the conflict, but the floo'J, 182 CORNUBIA. cakto v. From Ocean's stores with reinforcements plied, Ri-Hirning to th assault, with iurious stride, Kcat down the la^t resistance ; and around Thy rocky shore, his wat'ry arms he wound ; Then bade thee stand, s bjected to his reign, The richest islet in bis wide domain. Thy parent earth, althoug^h the strongest bands "Were snapp'd, that tied tliee to her sorrowing lands ;. rnvvilling- evVy title to resign To scenes of interest such as e'er were thine, Form'd a lii^hl chain to bind thee to her side. Sharing- possession with the victor-tide : Hence, twice each day an island dost thou stand ; Twice a peniiisula approach'd by land. I.o ! the retiring wave, with gentle piay. Steals from the bridge, and gives it to the day ; Safe is tlie passage while the Naiads go To fdl their urns at Ocean's fount b' low. But whence the name the sacred islet bears ? Hear what tlie legendary theme declares. A\'h:it time monastic discipline, scTere, And lni:tiy penitence and lives austere. Were fcDiiiy (ueniM acceptable to Ilcav'n, - Here, fyor/i ih>i world by Sujierslitioii driv'n, CANTO T. THE WESTERN COAST. 13^^ ( While yet a forest clothM the mountain's brovr. And shed a gloomy influence far below ; And rocks wrought into narrow caves bestow'd The lonely anchoret's desii'd abode ) Some hoary saints, by misplaced Faith inspir'd. Had to " the mountain of the tomb" ^ retir'd. Yet oft, by pious meditation led. Together they forsook their rushy bed. And, in the open air, to Heav'n addrest Their solemn orisons warm from the breast. Once, when the sun, descending in the maia. Gave to his sister-light her wonted reign ; While all the world beside was sunk in sleep, The sires alone remain'd their watch to keep ; When lo ! while streaming radiance deck'd the wood, A bright Archangel's form before them stood ! " All hail !" he cry'd ; " your sanctity and prayer.?, " ApprovM by Heav'n, are answer'd by its cares, " Henceforth, let sacred buildings here arise, '' Whence daily worship shall r'jjoice the skies ; *' Be 3'ours the meed to publish fleav'n's decree,, *' And be this mountain dedicate to me." He said ; and soar'd beyond their feeble gaze ; The grateful htnnits stood ubsorb'd in praise ; 134 CORNUBIA. santo v. Then spread the vision of the sacred mount While awe and wonder dwelt upon th' account. Soon rose a rich monastic dome, and still Partly adorns the venerable hill : Here pilg^rimages from afar were made. And sacred rites performed, and off 'rings paid ; Till civil feuds profan'd the holy pile, And warlike structures sham'd the sainted isle. Whether the eager eye delight to pore Or on the hallow'd Mount or neighb'ring shore. 'Tis beauteous all I and in a varied dress Nature and Art contend the mind to bless. Whether, aspiring from the lowly plain. Fancy the loffy chapel would attain ; Or from its beetling summit, high and steep. Ponder the island's slow-expanding sweep; Or gaze upon the fairy scene around. Where Cornwall's aggregated charms are found ; On cv'ry spot that v/ooes her to its breast. The stamp of Admiration stands imprest. Far to the left, the Lizards point e.\tends, '^ And o'er the intercepted ocean bends His clltral)rupt : The friendly beacons near. Warn the bold marinor aloof to steer. cANfo V. THE WESTERN COAST. 13 Wide round the sweeping- shore, huge rocks are seen Of beauteous tints ; where, on a varied green Of lively serpentine, each brilliant hue Of ruddiest flow'rs, salutes th' admiring^ vieWo In British porcelain well the praise is known Of Cornwall's wond'rous saponaceous s.ione, ^ W'hose properties the blended boasts display Of painted rock, and soft-conforming clay. Asbestos here, o'er rocky faces spreads Its fine-drawn filaments and polish'd threads, Whose qualities must Science needs admire, Alike unhurt by water or by fire ! Where Kynmi's Cove whose rocks and cliffs sublimt*. Seem to defy the injuries of time- Admits the bubbling surge, stupendous piles, Firm-bedded in the sand, in chilling stiles. Invite attention ; as their awful forms Defensive, seem to court the scourging storms. Startling Inquiry well-nigh dreads to stray Beneath th' impending crags, that o'er his way Frown horribly ; yet still their varied hues. And rugged shapes, the Fancy may amuse. O'erhanging rocks, with sullen, low'ring brow la dreadful masses threat the beach below, 136 CORNliBiA. So (lang'rons of descent ; yet even there By Curiosity iinpell'd, repair The daring few : Some creep the crags' steep side ;- Some to the cove in sail-urg'd vessels glide ; And there, at leisure, all the forms survey, That language feels unequal to pourtray. Yet know whate'er of terrible or vast. Of stony nature, round this Isle is cast. May here be found, in rudest, tallest blocks A congregated host of mountain-rocks ! That seem t' oppress the sand on which they rest, And lie, with fearful weight, on Nature's breast ! Though rough and wild their lofty summits show, Attrition's pow'r, and ocean's constant flow. Have rais'd so high a polish on their base As may the lapidary's pow'rs disgrace ! O Nature ! ( for by Ihce we love to call The Pow'r that form'd, dispos'd, and governs all ! ) How glorious are thy works ! How vast, how grand. Thy varied wonders of the sea and land ! ">Vhether we coiileni])late liic humblest blade That springs and willier-; in a Itarrcu shade ; ^VhetliPr we roan\ the clitl'-defi nded shore Intent thy rich pro'luctions to explore ; CANTO V, <..\ntC> v. the western COAST. 137 The deep-stamp'd sig'ns of an Almighty hand Ave mark'd where'er we g-o, where'er we stand. ! like those rocks may my aiFections be Great Cause of all ! for ever fix'd on thee ; Like them, may I the storms of life endure. While conscious justice makes my feet secure ; And, though no verdure round my scat be spread, 3Iay rays of calm contentment cheer my head ! Yonder, where winds the coast with broken sweep. The Loe-Pool robs the too-confiding deep : l'pheav"d by western tempests from the tide, A shelly barrier often is supplied. That, rising 'gainst the ocean as a mound. Forbids his ingress o'er his wonted ground. Within, th' iniprison'd waters mildly take A mazy course, and form a lengthcnM lake. Where clara'rous curlews skim in circling sweep, A nd luscious trout their playful gambols keep. .\round the Pool each sylvan charm is seen That Nature boasts, impressive and serene: Here, rocks npstaiting from the watry marge, Erect their rugged features, bold and large; The soft-refiring hiik, whose wavy line Highly exhibit's n)any a fair dpsig-o. 138 CORNUBIA. canto v. Luxuriantly in pendant woods arraj'd. Display each fleeting grace of light and shade. While, to complete the scene, the sacred tow'r Of HelstoH^s temple decorates the shore. And Taste delights his treasures to disclose Amidst the fairy forms that deck Penrose. But not along the changeful coast alone Are prospects of delightful int'rest known : Though Nature there her influence impart. The land can boast the varied charms of Art Too numerous for song : Dull were the Muse Who to attend their features would refuse. Pen^crsivick Castle though a lonely tow'r Only remain where ramparts frown'd of yore ; GodolphhCa stately wood-embosom'd hall, * Though Ruin now glares o'er the crumbling wall. To pensive Meditation shall renew The boasts of ages long retir'd from view. Now to the west, my Muse ! direct thy flight? To scenes of rugged mould and wild delight, Where circles, cromlechs, castles, rise around, And granite rocks of ev'ry form abound. I'arewell, thou sacred Mount ! the Muse no njore j^Iay tread the mazy walk^i tbat deck thy shore. CANTO V. THE \VESTERN COAST. 139 And, as before her gaze thy charms unfold, Cjiow with rich visions of the days of old: Variety's attractions now impel To distant journeys : Sacred Mount, farewell ! Yet here fond Memoi-y shall oft repair. Anxious thy warm, peculiar charms to share. And, from thy wild romantic crag-s, survey Scenes, fair as Britain opens to the day : Science, with high delight, shall love to pore On the rich products of thy treasur'd shore ; Painting shall joy, in glowing tints to trace Thy varied features and attractive grace ; And Hist'ry's pen shall give to deathless Fame The facts that stamp the honours of thy name ! If modern pictures can regale the mind, I.o ! where, round Buriton,^ are seen combin'd The charms of Art and Nature, sure to please The gentle breast, within itself at ease. AVhatever objects can delight the eye. Here, scatter'd in a sweet profusion lie. ]f, turning from the Eastern, rocky shore, Irenes of a milder face it would explore. See \'\here the beauteous villa courts the view. And gardenrj smile in Flora's gayest hue. L 2 1^ CORNUBI^ CANTO V Th' umbrageous \valk to pensive thought invites ; The swelHng hill the active mind delights With well-contrasted objects, g'rave or gay, Expanding in an ample, rich display. Kenegie's alleys and romantic groves Unfold a scene where bland Hygseia roves O'erjoy'd, the freshening breezes to inhale Borne from the bracing wave or fi agraut dale. Rosehill, Trcreife, and Lariggan may claim ( "With others which the Muse forbears to name) An equal praise, with ev'ry boast endticd Of spacious prospect and investing wood. If to the \ycst'.vard roam the vagrant g^.anee, Successive beauties to its kcu advance : There Newli/n, whose industrious sons obtain Health and abundance from the wcll-stor'd main ; Whose daiighteis justly 'midst C'ornubia bear The pri/e of bear.ty ; not less chaste tlian fair. High o'er the ncighb'ring hjii of cultural green. Thy tow'r, St. Paul, mildly adorns the sceno : Near this, the Inland Ilavcna shtller'd bay '' Presents a sliore, in rural gracis gay. Whilst, softly ^jireading to adorn the view. The Alyurit'i eirntusive II?y, of hvely hue, CANTO V. THE WESTERN COAST. 141 Unfolds the changeful scene of SQO\vy saiia Tumid or flutt'ring, as the fickle gales Sport with the seaman's hopes, and scarce impel Around his lagging bark, the rippling swell. But me no more these lovely scones detain ; No more 1 wake to gentle themes the strain ; Again, as now my length'ning course I wind To where the huge Bolaium "^ stands confin'd Betwixt opposing seas, that vainly roar And lash his bold and firm-resisting shore, Again 'tis mine, ( nor undesir'd ) to gaze On the unpolish'd art of elder days, And trace each rude essay to give to Fame British or Roman act of noble name. But vain the pow'rs of Poesy to sing A host of forms unscitcd to her .string : J.ct Observation cast tli' attentive glance On either side the hcalhy, wild expanse. With fern or furze uupiofitahly green, 1.0 1 far and wide, on either hand, are seen 'J'he spots where native skill has rudely toit'dj Or Nature looks abroad, by Art unspoil'd. On monnlaiu-summit, or in lowly vale, \\'iW, granite heaps Uic woud'ring eye assail; 142 CORNUBIA. CANTO v, Uiicouthly pil'd in evVy varied form That best might wag-e resistance to the storm : The frequent circle, rang'd of unwrought blocks. Rude as when sever'd from their parent-rocks, AVhere Pagan worshippers, in times of yore. Were went the gods of Error to adore ; The cromlech, which, while Science lay in gloom, Fcrm'd the rough model of the modern tomb ! The cairn and barrow, that of old inurn'd Chiefs of renown, for lofty actions m mrn'd ; The humid vault, -the cave's misshapen side, The subterranean gall'ry,^ spreading wide ; These, in abundance found, explain the taste Of uv.taught Britons, while the rocky waste As yet was never trod by foreign foe. And Nature only taught their breasts to glow. Not seldom seen, rising erect and lone Appears, with shapeless forms, the sculptur'd stone; AVhose letter'd boasts may designate the day "When here the Romnn legions held their sway. But oft the figsM-es, faithless to their trust. Or gr.aw'd by l.vvn and frtqucul gales to duit^ Bear but the vestiges of signs to f< II, In myotic guis;-, who bravely foiij^lit or fe!!. CANTO V. THE WESTERN COAST. 143 The sacred wells of healing waters, known By Christian emblems rudely wrought in stone ;= The oratories, where the saints of old Their missionary pow'rs were wont t' unfold ; The chapels now dilapidated quite, Whose ruins onl}' shew their ancient site ; More modern times, though far from us remote. And days of rising excellence denote. All these, which learned minds with joy explore. And whatsoe'er in Antiquarian lore Of British or of Roman fame is found. Along the solitary road abound : But say, to forms so wild what charms belong To claim distinct celebrity in song ? If, sated with the view, the roaming eye Require the zest that shifting scenes supply. Behold ! the modest cot, in humble mien. Amidst a trim inclosure, gay and green, Looks o'er the waste, and cheers its dreary air With thoughts of social joys that harbour there. Oft, too, the distant spire, in rustic grace Affords a pensive int'vest to the place ; And the enkindling breast with awe smvcys Domes, sacred by their use and length of days- 141 CORi\UBIA. .ANio V >Vherc Burtan's low'r, on elevated ground. Displays its well-known features wide around, ( A friendl V landmark to the hardy band Coasting- alo:ig the North or Southern strand ) Though now mean cots alone possess the -tieWj Once when devotion to exub'rance grew, Collegiate spires and pinnacles pourtray'd The pious zeal by Athelstan display'd. The warlike monarch, who, with conqu'ring sword, Had Devon and Cornubia's coasts explor'd, Made Insurrection's troublous waves be still. And bow'd the proud and haughty to his will ; Preparing hence his conquests to pursue Where Scilly's hostile islands met his view, Ere he embark'd to cross the deep-blue rnaiii, Kiieeling at Buriana's s-aiuted fane, 9 Vov;'d to erect, should Victory mark his way, A sacred pile, where holy men should p;iv Continued service's of hymn and pray'r. In griifeful tiiaiiks for Ileav'n's propitious car( , Soon he returu'd, successful; soon arose 'i lie \otive building, destin'd to disclf;se The s()v"'-eigi;\s gratitude for timely aid, And 3wav a'sui'd. and t,i:l'jccls piaecful niafii. cAN iMr\od that Varhar lit-s partly in CorH- r^OTES. liOij wall and partly in Devon. The same observation applies to Mount Edgcumbe, v?hich is wholly in this parish, and chiefly in the Devonian portion of it. Part of the demesne, however, is in Cornwall. Note 3, p. 41, line 16. " The lofty Light-house,'' Tliat on the Eddy-slone. Note 4, p. 50, line 2. ' 7 he huer' s jojiful sound.'' Huers are persons stationed on the cliffs during the fishing season, to watch the approach of the shoals, of which they give notice by a particular hue or cry. Note 5, p. 58, line 9. " Though of the noble house of Falmouth born.'* Admiral (Edward) Boscawen was the second son of Hug'h Viscount Falmouth, and was born at the family seat of Tregothnan. Note 6, p. 58, line 20. *' Truro crown'd it with her civic meed." He was chosen representative in Parliament for Truro, in 1742. Note 7, p. 59, line 18. " St. Michael sadly boasts the loarrior's grave." He was buried in the family vault in the church of St, Mi- chael Penkivel, where a fine momunent is erected to hii memojy. 164 NOTES. Note S, p. G2, line 16. St. 3Iaivd's.'' St. Mawes, anciently denominated St. Maudit's, and St. ^^awd's. Note 9, p. 62, line 24. " Denoting- real worth by symbols well express" d.^* This alludes to the seal of Falmouth, which is happily al- Icg^orical in descnbing the advantages of the port. NOTES TO CANTO III. Note 1, p. 72, line 11. " St. liiCs open hai-bour.'^ The modern appellation of St. Ives is said to be a corruption of St. liu, the name of a celebrated Irish female saint, who came hither from Ireland about the year 4G0, and was buried in the church at this place. Note 2, p. 74, line 1. '' Pcrran Bcuc/t.'" At Perran Forth, in the parish of Perranzabuloe, (i.e. Perr;in in sahulo) there is a fine sandy beach, frequented by parlies of pleasure, and used as a bathing place by the gentry &c, of the vicinity, who procure lodgings in the neighbouring cottages. Note 3, p. 70, lines 3, 4. " lainam'd AmoDZ'^t the terms that mark the. seaman's cJiart.''^ Wany of the small havens on the Cornish coast are distin- NOTES. 165 gTiished by the appellation of Portk; which, in the Cornu- British dialect, is synonimous with the modern term, port or harbour. St. Agnes' porth, and many others on the North oast of Cornwall, hating been much injured by the saud, are nearly useless, except for small vessels. Note 4, p. 82* line 4. " And ivaste his iing''ring days in sorrow here." In the reign of Richard II. Tintagel Castle was made a state prison ; and in 1385, John Northampton, Lord Mayor of London, was condemned to perpetual confinement there, for his unruly conduct whilst in office. During some part of the year 1397, Thomas, Earl of \\'arwick, was also imprison- ed there. Note 5, p. 83, line 11. " That vaVrous king, the British Worthy highf.''^ Although monkish legends have disfigured the history of " the renowned Arthur" with all the improbabilities of anci- ent romance, so as even to have inclined some to doubt if there ever existed such a personage; my humble opinion coincides with that of the philosophical statesman, Lord Ba- con, who thought " there was truth enough in his story to make him famous, besides that which was fabulous." Note G, p. 85, line 5. " Cambula's Stream.''* The river Camel or Alan, callud in the Cornii-British dia- Itct, Cabm-a/an, ( i. e. the croolced river) tVnni its tortuous course. There are many good reasi,'!j< formerly coiisi^terl of three circks of upright NOTES. 17 stones from three to five feet high. Though generally consr- dered of druidical origin, their denomination results from a prevalent persuasion of the common people that the stones were once men, who were thus metamorphosed for hurling on the Sabbath day ! Hurling was, some time since, a favourite di- version with the natives of this county. It consisted in play-* Ing in circles with a ball of wood, covered with silver. Note 4, p. 97, line 1. *' Trevethy^ s lone funereal stone" The term Trevethi, in the British language, signified the place of graves. I have taken advantage of this circum- stance to mention this monument as connected with the Other Half Stone, which is the name given to the shaft of a cross in commemoration of Doniert or Dungerth, king of Corn- wall, who was accidentally drowned about the year 872. Note 5, p. 97, line 9. " The Wring, in figure an inverted cone.'''' The Wring, or Cheesewring ( so called from the circular figure of some of the stones which compose it ) stands nearly on the top of a hill, on which are several similar groups, all of granite, but of less altitude. In addition to the particulars mentioned in the poem, it may be added that the top-stone of the Cheese-wring was formerly a rocking {or logan) stone, but a part of it having been broken off, the equipoise was thus destroyed. Note C, p. 98, line 18. " Dosmar^/'s sluggish, sullen waters sleep. DosBaerry Pool, (as it is generally called) which is thfo'j'y >GS NOTES. inland lake in this county, is in tlie parish of Alternon, adjoin- ing that of St. Cher, and is about a mile in circumference.- Note 7, page 1(H), line 7. " Roche Rock:' This denomination is applied to the central mass of three immense piles of craggy, ponderous stones, that seem to start out of a wide green surface, in the parish of Roche, and about a quarter cf a mile distant from its church. The height of the top part of the hermitage is 120 feet from the ground. Note 8, p. 108, lines 13, 14. " In vain on other potv^rs that blaze around, *' For their celestial injluencc I cull." It may be briefly remarked here, in illustration of the above lines, and of some others in the piece to which they belong, that the Druids weie professed astrologers, famed for their harning and integrity, yet strangely coinciding in the prac- tice of the most barborous tribes in the revolting practice of sacrificing human victims to appease the anger cf the gods. They dwelt in rude cells, (which were considered sacred by their occupancy ) wore long robes, and snfftred their beards to attain their natural length. Their sacrifices, and most of their rehgious rites, were performed under an oak, and they held the misletoe in the highest veneration. NoleO, p. 117, Hnes 117, 8,0. " The deep-sunk sh'ij't, expanding wide, " The adits, branchiuir from its side, " The drifts that to the metals <^uide." The shfft of a mine is a perpendicular excavation, hkc a NOTES. 169 laige well, through which ore or water is raised. The adit is a conduit, dug through the earth, at a certain depth from the bottom of the mine ; receiving the water raised in the shaft by the steam-engine, and conveying it to the neighbour- ing vallies or rivers. Drifts are trenches cut in the ground from North to South, for the purpose of discovering the lodes or veins of metal, which generally run from East to West, and ere thus intersected at right angles. Note 10, p. 118, line 21. " Nor length remote, nor depth projound.^* Some of t!ie copper mines in this county are nearly three hundred fathoms in perpendicular depth from the surface; and at Ootallack 3Iine ( of which see a more particular ac- count in Canto V.) part of the workings extend beyond 70 fathoms in length, under the sea; which, in some places, ac- tually filters through ! x\OTES TO CANTO V. Note 1, p. lo-i, Vm'i G. " The mountain of the tomh.'" This appellation, ;!s well as the legend that follows, is de- rived from Worcestn:, who speaks of " the appearance of St. Michael on the Mountuiii of the Tomb in Cornwall." {'^Ap- jtaricio Suncli Jliichatlis in Monte Tumid, in CornubidJ''' J Nv;le2, p. 1^4, line 21. " i'ar to the left, the Lizard's point extends." I;i the lunguage of tiie Coniisli Jiiitous. Lis-urd 'ii-jrxuijtd X KO NOTES. " a lofty projection," an appellation peculiarly suitable t(f the bold cape to which it has so long been applied. It is re- markuble that serpentine occurs no where else in England than in the neighbourhood of this promontory. Note 3, p. 135, line G. " Cornwall's icondroiis saponaceous stoned T .e Soapy Rock f steatites J near the Lizard, the whole of vhich is rented by the proprietors of the porcelain manufac- tory at Vv'orcester. Note 4, p. 13S, line 15. " Godolphbis staieli/, u-ood-cinhosom\l hull.''' This was an ancient manor of the Godolphin faniil}', wlio resided here in the time of ^^'illiam the Conqueror. Sir Francis Godolphin, who lived in the reign of EMzabeth, was a fortunate adventurer in the mining business, and it is as- serted that he {)aid aljove 10,000 a year to the Queen, tor the customs arising from this source of proht. The mansion of Godolphin is now partly tenanted by farmers, and partly in ruins. Note 5, p. 130, line IG. " Bnrilon,'' The ancient name of Penzance. NnteO, p. 140, hue 21. " The Island Haven's shclter'd bay.''' Mosal, now ridiculously denominated Mouseliole ! lu Cornish name, Fortcrnis, signihedtlie Island llavt-ii ; an a[,- |)eIlation derived from tlie litlie isle of St. C'Iement>, v, liirh lies before ir. NOTES, 171 Note 7, p. 141, line 8. " The huge Bolerium.'* The Land's End. Note 8, p. 142, lines 11 and 12. " The humid vault, the cave's misshapen side, " The subterranean galTrt/.'" Several artificial caves, or subterraneous passages, are found in the Western parishes of Cornwall. At Bodinnar, in San- creed, is a long- cave called the Giant's Hole. At St. Burian is a passage 36 feet in length and 7 feet high, with a cave or vault at its side. Al Pendeen Van, in St. Just, are three long and curious caves or galleries, supposed to have been used by the ancient Britons as places of retreat from their enemies. Other caves have been discovered in the Southern part of the County. Note 9, p. 144, line 16. " Buriana's sainted fane.'''' St. Burian, or Buriana, v.as a hoJy v.onian, who came from Ireland with other devout persons, and received sepulture here. An ancient building, on an estate called Bosliven, the walls of which (about twelve feet high) yet remain, covered v^-ith ivy, is traditionally reported to have been the sanctuary of the collegiate church founded by Athtlitan, and i, >.u'J Sic'd in much veneration. 172 INOTES. Note 10, p. 140, line 8. *' Nor think Enchantment s ancient wonders trne.^' The Looan-Stone, the equilibrium of which is the just theme of general admiration, contains about 1200 cubic feet; its weight is estimated at 90 tons: Yet this immense rof k can be easily moved by the strength of one man ! THE END. AiK lif II and Co. J'ri;itrs, Tr.' : i . UC SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY AA 000 076 009 o UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY Los Angeles This book is DUE on the last date stamped below. Form L9-100m-9.'52(A3105)444 -fiR fnoodley ^3ii2 Comubia PR 53ii2 W36c -'' \ ^U >*" v> '*>^-T:t *^ti' T** 1 i *^:^f'if*-A ^^S^^\ <-_ *v:l^ - ^f^^^- .^^^,^' i^?^^/->^; 'frr--.-3^- '^ ^.$.^