Page:The works of Anna Laetitia Barbauld volume 1.djvu/178

To homely scenes of calm domestic peace,
A poet's leisure, and an old man's ease;
To wear the remnant of uncertain life
In the fond bosom of a faithful wife;
In safe repose my last few hours to spend,
Nor fearful nor impatient of their end.
Thus a safe port the wave-worn vessels gain,
Nor tempt again the dangers of the main:—
Thus the proud steed, when youthful glory fades,
And creeping age his stiffening limbs invades,
Lies stretched at ease on the luxuriant plain,
And dreams his morning triumphs o'er again:—
The hardy veteran from the camp retires,
His joints unstrung, and feeds his household fires;
Satiate with fame, enjoys well-earned repose,
And sees his stormy day serenely close.

Not such my lot ! Severer fates decree
My shattered bark must plough an unknown sea.