Page:The Excursion, Wordsworth, 1814.djvu/240

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.

214

That he, from wrath redeemed, therein shall float
Over the billows of this troublesome world
To the fair land of everlasting Life.
Corrupt affections, covetous desires,
Are all renounced; high as the thought of man
Can carry virtue, virtue is professed;
A dedication made, a promise given
For due provision to controul and guide,
And unremitting progress to ensure
In holiness and truth."
"You cannot blame,"
Here interposing fervently I said,
"Rites which attest that Man by nature lies
Bedded for good and evil in a gulph
Fearfully low; nor will your judgment scorn
Those services, whereby attempt is made
To lift the Creature tow'rds that eminence
On which, now fallen, erewhile in majesty
He stood; or if not so, whose top serene
At least he feels 'tis given him to descry;
Not without aspirations, evermore
Returning, and injunctions from within
Doubt to cast off and weariness; in trust