165
HYMN
Before Sun-rise, in the Vale of Chamouny.
Besides the Rivers, Arve and Arveiron, which have their
sources in the foot of Mount Blanc, five conspicuous torrents
rush down its sides; and within a few paces of the Glaciers, the
Gentiana Major grows in immense numbers, with its "flowers
of loveliest blue."
Hast thou a charm to stay the Morning-Star
In his steep course? So long he seems to pause
On thy bald awful head, O sovran Blanc!
The Arve and Arveiron at thy base
Rave ceaselessly; but thou, most awful Form!
Risest from forth thy silent Sea of Pines,
How silently! Around thee and above
Deep is the air and dark, substantial, black.
An ebon mass: methinks thou piercest it,
As with a wedge! But when I look again,
It is thine own calm home, thy crystal shrine,
Thy habitation from eternity!
