INTRODUCTION

I, who accompanied with faithful pace Cerulean Duddon from its cloud-fed spring, And loved with spirit ruled by his to sing Of mountain-quiet and boon nature's grace; I, who essayed the nobler Stream to trace Of Liberty, and smote the plausive string Till the checked torrent, proudly triumphing, Won for herself a lasting resting-place; Now seek upon the heights of Time the source Of a HOLY RIVER,on whose banks are found Sweet pastoral flowers, and laurels that have crowned Full oft the unworthy brow of lawless force; And, for delight of him who tracks its course, Immortal amaranth and palms abound.