[1]From Possibility's dim chaos sprung,
High o'er its gloom the Aërostatic Power
Arose!--Exulting Nations hail'd the hour,
Magnific boast of Science!--Loud they sung
Her victory o'er the element, that hung,
Pressing to earth the Beings, who now soar
Aerial heights;--but Wisdom bids explore
This vaunted skill;--if, tides of air among,
We know to _steer_ our bark.--Here Science finds
Her buoyant hopes burst, like the bubble vain,
Type of this art;--guilty, if still she blinds
The sense of Fear; persists thy flame to fan,
Sky-vaulting Pride, that to the aweless winds
Throws, for an idle Show, the LIFE OF MAN!
1: This Sonnet was written when the Balloon enthusiasm was at its
height.