221
Imperfect substitutes, whose use and power
Evince the want and weakness whence they spring."
While in this serious mood we held discourse,
The reverend Pastor tow'rds the Church-yard gate
Approached; and, with a mild respectful air
Of native cordiality, our Friend
Advanced to greet him. With a gracious mien
Was he received, and mutual joy prevailed.
Awhile they stood in conference, and I guess
That He, who now upon the mossy wall
Sate by my side, had vanished, if a wish
Could have transferred him to his lonely House
Within the circuit of those guardian rocks.
—For me, I looked upon the pair, well pleased:
Nature had framed them both, and both were marked
By circumstance with intermixture fine
Of contrast and resemblance. To an Oak
Hardy and grand, a weather-beaten Oak,
Fresh in the strength and majesty of age,
One might be likened: flourishing appeared,
Though somewhat past the fulness of his prime,
