VIII.

But, ah! in vain 'gainst Thee we write,

In vain thy Verse we maul!

Our sharpest Satyr's thy Delight,

For——Blood! thou'lt stand it all.[48]

IX.

Thunder, 'tis said, the Laurel spares;

Nought but thy Brows could blast it:

And yet——O curst, provoking Stars!

Thy Comfort is, thou hast it.