_Written on the close of the Session_, 1849.
"The tyme cam that resoun was to ryse."--CHAUCER.
"_Corin_. And how like you this shepherd's life, Master Touchstone?
"_Touchstone._ Truly, shepherd, in respect of itself it is a good
life.... In respect it is in the Fields, it pleaseth me
well."--SHAKSPEARE.
Ho! for the shady grove and silvery stream!
Now that yclosed is the Fane, where I
Am doomed, by no unhappy destiny,
To tend those Mighty Ones who find a theme
For their lives' labour in the nation's weal.
Now am I free, or book or rod in hand,
Alone, or compassed by a cherub band
Of laughing children, by the brook to steal,
Seeking repose in sport which WALTON loved--
Sport meet alike for Youth or thoughtful
Age--
Free, an I wish to go a pilgrimage
With CHAUCER, my companion long approved,
Or thee, thou Greater One, who lovedst to sing,
"Of books in brooks, and good in every thing."