When joy of war and pride of chivalry

Languished beneath accumulated years,[722]

Had power to draw him from the world, resolved

To make that paradise his chosen home

To which his peaceful fancy oft had turned.

"Vague thoughts are these; but, if belief may rest

Upon unwritten story fondly traced

From sire to son, in this obscure retreat

The Knight arrived, with spear and shield, and borne

Upon a Charger gorgeously bedecked