The western borders were with crimson spread, The moon descending looked all flaming red; She thought good manners bound her to invite The stranger dame to be her guest that night. 'Tis true, coarse diet, and a short repast, } She said, were weak inducements to the taste } Of one so nicely bred, and so unused to fast;} But what plain fare her cottage could afford, A hearty welcome at a homely board, Was freely hers; and, to supply the rest, An honest meaning, and an open breast; Last, with content of mind, the poor man's wealth, A grace-cup to their common patron's[177] health. This she desired her to accept, and stay, For fear she might be wildered in her way, Because she wanted an unerring guide, And then the dew-drops on her silken hide Her tender constitution did declare, } Too lady-like a long fatigue to bear, } And rough inclemencies of raw nocturnal air.[178]} But most she feared, that, travelling so late,} Some evil-minded beasts might lie in wait, } And without witness wreak their hidden hate. } The Panther, though she lent a listening ear, Had more of lion in her than to fear; Yet wisely weighing, since she had to deal With many foes their numbers might prevail, Returned her all the thanks she could afford, And took her friendly hostess at her word; Who, entering first her lowly roof, a shed } With hoary moss and winding ivy spread, } Honest enough to hide an humble hermit's head,} Thus graciously bespoke her welcome guest: } So might these walls, with your fair presence blest,} Become your dwelling-place of everlasting rest; } Not for a night, or quick revolving year, Welcome an owner, not a sojourner. This peaceful seat my poverty secures; War seldom enters but where wealth allures: Nor yet despise it; for this poor abode, Has oft received, and yet receives a God; A God, victorious of a Stygian race, Here laid his sacred limbs, and sanctified the place. This mean retreat did mighty Pan[179] contain;} Be emulous of him, and pomp disdain, } And dare not to debase your soul to gain.[180]} The silent stranger stood amazed to see Contempt of wealth, and wilful poverty; And, though ill habits are not soon controuled, Awhile suspended her desire of gold. But civilly drew in her sharpened paws, } Not violating hospitable laws, } And pacified her tail, and licked her frothy jaws.} The Hind did first her country cates provide; Then couched herself securely by her side. FOOTNOTES: [Footnote 140: Alluding to the Popish Plot. See Note I.] [Footnote 141: James II. then Duke of York, whom Shaftesbury and his party involved in the odium of the plot.]