FLORA, AND THALIA. 143 



" Why, else, the o'ergrown paths of time 

 Would thus the lettered sage explore ; 



With pain those crumbling ruins climb. 

 And on the doubtful sculpture pore ] 



" Why seeks he, with unwearied toil, 



Through death's dim walk to urge his way ; 



Reclaim his long-asserted spoil, 

 And lead oblivion into day 1 



" 'Tis nature prompts, by toil or fear 



Unmoved, to range through death's domain ; 



The tender parent loves to hear 

 Her children's story told again. . 



" Treat not with scorn his thoughtful hours, 

 If haply near these haunts he stray ; 



Nor take the fair enliv'ning flowers 

 That bloom to cheer his lonely way." 



LANGHORIS^E. 



