ECCLESIASTICAL SONNETS
IX. WILLIAM THE THIRD
ECCLESIASTICAL SONNETS
CALM as an under-current, strong to draw Millions of waves into itself, and run, From sea to sea, impervious to the sun And ploughing storm, the spirit of Nassau Swerves not, (how blest if by religious awe Swayed, and thereby enabled to contend With the wide world’s commotions) from its end Swerves not–diverted by a casual law. Had mortal action e’er a nobler scope? The Hero comes to liberate, not defy; 10 And, while he marches on with stedfast hope, Conqueror beloved! expected anxiously! The vacillating Bondman of the Pope Shrinks from the verdict of his stedfast eye.