[22] Compare the four sonnets on Iona, in the "Poems composed or suggested during a Tour in the Summer of 1833."—Ed.
[23] 1841.
... fame, 1822.
[24] See note [40], p. [13].—Ed.
VI
PERSECUTION
Lament! for Diocletian's fiery sword
Works busy as the lightning; but instinct
With malice ne'er to deadliest weapon linked,
Which God's ethereal store-houses afford:
Against the Followers of the incarnate Lord 5
It rages;—some are smitten in the field—
Some pierced to the heart through the ineffectual shield[25]
Of sacred home;—with pomp are others gored
And dreadful respite. Thus was Alban tried,[26]
England's first Martyr, whom no threats could shake;
Self-offered victim, for his friend he died, 11
And for the faith; nor shall his name forsake
That Hill, whose flowery platform seems to rise
By Nature decked for holiest sacrifice.[27]
FOOTNOTES:
[25] 1840.