Which, though new-born, with vigour move, Wild roses over furrow'd ground, There Genius, Learning, Fancy, Wit, She thus maintains divided sway VERSES Supposed to be written by Alexander Selkirk, during his solitary abode in the island of Juan Fernandez. I. I AM monarch of all I survey, That sages have seen in thy face? I am out of humanity's reach, must finish my journey alone, III. Society, friendship, and love, In the ways of religion and truth, Might learn from the wisdom of age, And be cheer'd by the sallies of youth. IV. Religion! what treasure untold V. Ye winds that have made me your sport, Convey to this desolate shore Some cordial endearing report Of a land, I shall visit no more. O tell me I yet have a friend, VI. How fleet is a glance of the mind! Compar'd with the speed of its flight, The tempest itself lags behind, And the swift-winged arrows of light. When I think of my own native land, In a moment I seem to be there; But alas! recollection at hand Soon hurries me back to despair. VII. But the sea-fowl is gone to her nest, And reconciles man to his lot. |