And these deep groves forever have remained

Touched by no axe, by no proud owner nursed;

As now they stand they stood when Pharaoh reigned,

Lineal descendants of creation’s first.

. . . . . . . . .

No tales we know are chronicled of thee

In ancient scrolls; no deeds of doubtful claim

Have hung a history on every tree,

And given each rock its fable and a fame.

But neither here hath any conqueror trod,