Contemptible as vain.[204]
Now hear what one of elder days,
Rich theme of England's fondest praise,
Her darling Alfred, might have spoken;[205]
To cheer the remnant of his host
When he was driven from coast to coast,
Distressed and harassed, but with mind unbroken:[206]
30
"My faithful followers, lo! the tide is spent
That rose, and steadily advanced to fill