And whence that tribute? wherefore these regards?
The sentiments and opinions here uttered are in unison with those expressed in the ... Essay upon Epitaphs, which was furnished by me for Mr. Coleridge's periodical work, The Friend; and as they are dictated by a spirit congenial to that which pervades this and the two succeeding books, the sympathising reader will not be displeased to see the Essay here annexed.[LK]—W.W. (1814).
Page [236].
And spires whose 'silent finger points to heaven.'
An instinctive taste teaches men to build their churches in flat countries with spire-steeples, which as they cannot be referred to any other object, point as with silent finger to the sky and stars, and sometimes, when they reflect the brazen light of a rich though rainy sunset, appear like a pyramid of flame burning heaven-ward. See The Friend, by S. T. Coleridge, No. 14, p. 223.—W. W. (1814).
Page [308].
That sycamore, which annually holds
Within its shade, as in a stately tent.
This Sycamore oft musical with Bees;
Such Tents the Patriarchs loved.