Recitative, Accompanied

Mute Admiration, that had hush'd the crowd, Yielded to acclamations warm and loud; For lo! a sight that ever shall impart Strong, strong emotions to each British heart! Scarce had the Princess, on the peopled strand, Admired the beauty of fair Freedom's land, When, in majestic grandeur, stood revealed, Bright as her crest, refulgent as her shield, BRITANNIA!—with a tender zeal impress'd, As tutelary guardian of her lovely guest: And oh! ineffable was the angelic smile That bid the glorious stranger welcome to her isle. Nor ended there Those shouts that rent the air; But as distinctions, honours, on the way, Still courted some solicitous delay, Their longing eyes pursu'd the splendid train, Nor lost them till they reach'd fair Hymen's fane, Whom they address'd in fervent prayer.