MEMORIALS OF A TOUR IN ITALY, 1837
V. CONTINUED
MEMORIALS OF A TOUR IN ITALY, 1837
COMPLACENT Fictions were they, yet the same Involved a history of no doubtful sense, History that proves by inward evidence From what a precious source of truth it came. Ne’er could the boldest Eulogist have dared Such deeds to paint, such characters to frame, But for coeval sympathy prepared To greet with instant faith their loftiest claim. None but a noble people could have loved Flattery in Ancient Rome’s pure-minded style: 10 Not in like sort the Runic Scald was moved; He, nursed ‘mid savage passions that defile Humanity, sang feats that well might call For the blood-thirsty mead of Odin’s riotous Hall.