And gazed like startled deer. But now appear'd the Seneschal, Commission'd by his lord to call The strangers to the Baron's hall,

Where feasted fair and free That Island Prince in nuptial tide, With Edith there his lovely bride, And her bold brother by her side, And many a chief, the flower and pride.

Of Western land and sea.

Here pause we, gentles, for a space;
And, if our tale hath won your grace,
Grant us brief patience, and again
We will renew the minstrel strain.

THE

LORD OF THE ISLES.

CANTO SECOND.

THE

LORD OF THE ISLES.

CANTO SECOND.

Fill the bright goblet, spread the festive board !

Summon the gay, the noble, and the fair ! Through the loud hall in joyous concert pour'd,

Let mirth and music sound the dirge of Care! But ask thou not if Happiness be there,

If the loud laugh disguise convulsive throe, Or if the brow the heart's true livery wear;

Lift not the festal mask !-enough to know, No scene of mortal life but teems with mortal woe.