SONNET.
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."
WILLIAM J. THOMS.