But what of the emigrant commemorated at St. Budeaux, Sir Ferdinando? He voluntarily left his English home to help found the magnificent commonwealth, that in a single century has absorbed a whole continent, in extent infinitely larger than the realms the Constantines in their fullest glory presided over, and whose existence was altogether unknown when their last representative lost his crown and his life. How different the errands of these men in their migrations from their native land. But no emperor rules the destinies of the nation he helped to found; the charm of simple and equal citizenship is the secret of its strength; and while the memorial of Paleologus is viewed with curious sympathy by the wayfarer, as being only the interesting reminder of an extinct rule,--the tomb of Gorges has been renovated by the descendants of those pioneers he helped to conduct across the broad Atlantic, and left with them the deathless heritage of liberty and progress. Again we are enveloped in the gloom of the great bridge, another pleasant day's voyaging is ended, and as our foot touches the shore, a suggestive farewell thought follows us across the river, bearing on its wing the motto inscribed on the sun-dial over the porch of the church of St. Budeaux:-- "EX HOC MOMENTO PENDET ÆTERNITAS." Upon this moment--here we part, Until the coming dawn arise And we are spared,--nay, do not start, The present moment as it flies Is all the dower Life gives the heart, All that the miser Time supplies. Upon this moment--yon bridge vast, That spans the deep and darkling tide, To that frail link which joins at last Life to eternity so wide, Is as the gossamer, that's cast Across the green dell's dewy side. Upon this moment--warm hands greet, Though glance be hid by shadows dim, Hark to those fisher children! sweet Singing their votive evening hymn,-- Their dreams will be again to meet, All undisturbed by truth so grim. No sword of Damocles infest Life's subtle thread of moments spun, This day is ours--with loving zest Cease not 'till all its work be done, Then fold thy hands, and take thy rest, And calmly wait to-morrow's sun. [Illustration] RESURGAM [Illustration: Portrait] INDEX. A. Abbotsbury Abbey Church, 145. Alcester Church, Greville monument in, 29. Aller Church, Bottreaux monument in, 148. Ameredith, Edward, his epitaph, 202. Anstis, Sir John, 5_n_.