XXV.
The square-built tow'r, the pillared entrance-way,
The massive doors, and this encolumned porch,
Proclaim that here stern Learning holdeth sway,
And here the classic Muse illumes her torch
And, standing thus, a grand, imposing whole,
It well may awe my poor untutored soul.
XXVI.
I wander on along the tree-girt streets,
Admiring, by compulsion, all the view.
So pleasing is each changing sight that greets
My eye, as thus I slowly wander through
The city, that had Fate not bid me roam
In exile, here I'd gladly make my home.
Here happy homes surround me, but the sight
Of happiness is but a mockery
To me. My life is like a darkened night,
And happiness was not prepared for me;
And rankest disappointment, unalloyed
With hope, my trustful patience has destroyed.
XXVIII.
Toronto, fare thee well! I cannot stay
Within thy gates. Eternal restlessness
Possesses me. I must pursue my way,
Though other cities will impress me less
Than thou hast done. My native land apart,
Thou standest first in this my weary heart.
XXIX.
Niagara's small village quiet lies
Where flows the river in the open lake.
The thought of long-past actions sanctifies
This little spot. For those brave soldiers' sake
Who gladly gave their lives a sacrifice
To country, it is hallowed in my eyes.