So speaks the Chronicle, and tells of Lear By his ungrateful daughters turned adrift. Ye lightnings, hear his voice!--they cannot hear, Nor can the winds restore his simple gift. But One there is, a Child of nature meek, 45 Who comes her Sire to seek; And he, recovering sense, upon her breast Leans smilingly, and sinks into a perfect rest.[AC] There too we read of Spenser's fairy themes, And those that Milton loved in youthful years; 50 The sage enchanter Merlin's subtle schemes; The feats of Arthur and his knightly peers;[AD] Of Arthur,--who, to upper light restored, With that terrific sword[AE] Which yet he brandishes for future war,[51] 55 Shall lift his country's fame above the polar star! What wonder, then, if in such[52] ample field Of old tradition, one particular flower Doth seemingly in vain its fragrance yield, And bloom unnoticed even to this late hour? 60 Now, gentle Muses, your assistance grant, While I this flower transplant Into a garden stored with Poesy;[53] Where flowers and herbs unite, and haply some weeds be,[54] That, wanting not wild grace, are from all mischief free![55] A KING more worthy of respect and love 66 Than wise Gorbonian ruled not in his day;[AF] And grateful Britain prospered far above All neighbouring countries through his righteous sway; He poured rewards and honours on the good; 70 The oppressor he withstood; And while he served the Gods with reverence due, Fields smiled, and temples rose, and towns and cities grew. He died, whom Artegal succeeds--his son; But how unworthy of that sire[56] was he! 75 A hopeful reign, auspiciously begun, Was darkened soon by foul iniquity. From crime to crime he mounted, till at length The nobles leagued their strength With a vexed people, and the tyrant chased; 80 And, on the vacant throne, his worthier Brother placed. From realm to realm the humbled Exile went, Suppliant for aid his kingdom to regain; In many a court, and many a warrior's tent, He urged his persevering suit in vain. 85 Him, in whose wretched heart ambition failed, Dire poverty assailed; And, tired with slights his pride no more could brook, He towards his native country cast a longing look.[57] Fair blew the wished-for wind--the voyage sped; 90 He landed; and, by many dangers scared, "Poorly provided, poorly followèd," To Calaterium's forest he repaired. How changed from him who, born to highest place, Had swayed the royal mace, 95 Flattered and feared, despised yet deified, In Troynovant, his seat by silver Thames's side![AG]