But Science too her trophies would display; I love thus uncontroll'd, as in a dream, But now in quest of no ambitious height, In measured strains I tell a Tale of Paraguay. A TALE OF PARAGUAY. CANTO I. 1. JENNER! for ever shall thy honour'd name Among the children of mankind be blest, Who by thy skill hast taught us how to tame One dire disease, . . the lamentable pest Which Africa sent forth to scourge the West, As if in vengeance for her sable brood So many an age remorselessly opprest. For that most fearful malady subdued Receive a poet's praise, a father's gratitude. 2. Fair promise be this triumph of an age Lo, this his glorious destiny assign'd! For that blest consummation let us pray, And trust in fervent faith, and labour as we may. VOL. VII. C |