Memorials Of A Tour On The Continent, 1820 - XXI. - On Hearing The "Ranz Des Vaches" On The Top Of The Pass Of St. Gothard

I listen, but no faculty of mine Avails those modulations to detect, Which, heard in foreign lands, the Swiss affect With tenderest passion; leaving him to pine (So fame reports) and die, his sweet-breathed kine Remembering, and green Alpine pastures decked With vernal flowers. Yet may we not reject The tale as fabulous. Here while I recline, Mindful how others by this simple Strain Are moved, for me upon this Mountain named Of God himself from dread pre-eminence, Aspiring thoughts, by memory reclaimed, Yield to the Music's touching influence; And joys of distant home my heart enchain.