Mark well these signs, though trifling yet not vain,
Prognostics sure of the impending rain.
If towers to sight uncapt the mountain's head,
While on its base a vapoury veil is spread; 280
If on the ocean's bosom clouds appear,
While the blue vault above is bright and clear;
These signs by shepherds and by sailors seen,
Give pleasing hope of days and nights serene.
When the blue sky and softly breathing air
Afford of lengthen’d calm a promise fair,
Then on these signs with watchful eye intent—
Forewarn’d—secure—the coming storm prevent.
And when with deep-charg'd clouds the air’s opprest,
Phatne, the spot that shines on Cancer's breast, 290
Attentive mark: if bright the spot appear,
Soon Phœbus smiles with face serene and clear,
Nor the returning rain and tempest fear.
When burn the Lamps with soft and steady light,
And the Owl softly murmurs through the night;
And e'en the Raven from her varying throat
Utters at eve a soft and joyous note:
When from all quarters in the twilight shade
The Rooks returning to th' accustom’d glade
Their lofty rocking dormitories crowd, 300
Clapping their gladsome wings and cawing loud—
