Memorials Of A Tour In Italy, 1837 - VII. ' At Rome

They who have seen the noble Roman's scorn Break forth at thought of laying down his head, When the blank day is over, garroted In his ancestral palace, where, from morn To night, the desecrated floors are worn By feet of purse-proud strangers; they who have read In one meek smile, beneath a peasant's shed, How patiently the weight of wrong is borne; They who have heard some learned Patriot treat Of freedom, with mind grasping the whole theme From ancient Rome, downwards through that bright dream Of Commonwealths, each city a star-like seat Of rival glory; they, fallen Italy Nor must, nor will, nor can, despair of Thee!