The Apparition

The Parthenon uplifted on its rock first challenging the view on the approach to Athens.

Abrupt the supernatural Cross, Vivid in startled air, Smote the Emperor Constantine And turned his soul’s allegiance there.

With other power appealing down, Trophy of Adam’s best! If cynic minds you scarce convert, You try them, shake them, or molest.

Diogenes, that honest heart, Lived ere your date began; Thee had he seen, he might have swerved In mood nor barked so much at Man.

L’ENVOI

The Return of the Sire de Nesle. A.D. 16

My towers at last! These rovings end, Their thirst is slaked in larger dearth: The yearning infinite recoils, For terrible is earth.

Kaf thrusts his snouted crags through fog: Araxes swells beyond his span, And knowledge poured by pilgrimage Overflows the banks of man.

But thou, my stay, thy lasting love One lonely good, let this but be! Weary to view the wide world’s swarm, But blest to fold but thee.