But (like those upper Stars, that, when conjoin’d,
Shed woe and pestilence) to scourge mankind,
Gather’d around, with hosts from every shore,
Hating Napoleon much, but Freedom more;
And, in that coming strife, appall’d to see
The world yet left one chance for liberty!—
No, ’twas not then the time to weave a net
Of bondage round your Chief; to curb and fret
Your veteran war-horse, pawing for the fight,
When every hope was in his speed and might—