19 



v. 



But when lie sought the blooming maid, 



Her treasure to restore; 

 His powers were gone, — he scarce could wade 



To reach the distant shore ! 



That form, where strength and beauty nie^^ 



To conquer or engage. 

 Paid, premature, its mournful debt, 



To grey and palsied age. 



Finn is soon afterwards found by his chiefs, in the state 

 described by the poet. They draw the enchantress from 

 a cave, in which she had concealed herself, and oblise 

 her, by threats, to disenchant their leader. She presents 

 him with a medicated cup. He drinks, and immediately 



His former grace. 

 His former powers return'd ; 

 Again with beauty glow'd his face. 

 His breast with valour burn'd, 



I sliall now conclude. I have not the vanity to think, 

 that I have established my hypothesis; but, I flatter my- 

 self, I have thrown out a hint, which may lead to a 

 curious and interesting investigation by some abler hand. 





