Where splendid cities rich and old
In happier climates glittering lay.
Their towers have filled my sated eyes,
Their sins and follies all are known,
With quickened step the pilgrim hies
To greet once more his long-left home.
O silent house! O breezy shade!
Haven of rest and refuge sweet!
The great world’s din can ne’er invade
Thy lonely courts, my green retreat!