Ode II. to Peace

From thy celestial bower, Beyond the starry sphere, Where Love and Beauty share with thee their sway, Descend, thou happy Power, Descend with speed, and steer To seagirt Albion thy willing way. Here thy shrine elect With all the spoils of Art and blooming Nature deck'd,

But far be from thy train The brood of evil Fate, That oft around thy holy throne appear. To deal her golden bane Let not Corruption wait; Nor Freedom's ensign raving Riot rear: Let not Power constrain The wandering tides of wealth to Luxury's proud fane.

Clad in patriot steel May Fortitude be seen; And Honour wide his radiant blazon spread: May Liberty reveal His cool undaunted mien; While Agriculture tends the genial mead: And thy empire o'er Commerce and rich Plenty blend their liberal store.