Poems (Wordsworth, 1815)/Volume 2/Epitaph 5

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For works with similar titles, see Epitaph and Epitaphs translated from Chiabrera.
2340414Poems Volume II — Epitaph 5th1815William Wordsworth

V.



5.

Not without heavy grief of heart did He,
On whom the duty fell, (for at that time
The Father sojourned in a distant Land)
Deposit in the hollow of this Tomb
A Brother's Child, most tenderly beloved!
Francesco was the name the Youth had borne,
Pozzobonnelli his illustrious House;
And when beneath this stone the Corse was laid
The eyes of all Savona streamed with tears.
Alas! the twentieth April of his life
Had scarcely flowered: and at this early time,
By genuine virtue he inspired a hope
That greatly cheered his Country: to his Kin
He promised comfort; and the flattering thoughts
His Friends had in their fondness entertained,[1]
He suffered not to languish or decay.
Now is there not good reason to break forth
Into a passionate lament?—O Soul!
Short while a Pilgrim in our nether world,
Do thou enjoy the calm empyreal air;
And round this earthly tomb let roses rise,
An everlasting spring! in memory
Of that delightful fragrance which was once,
From thy mild manners, quietly exhaled.

  1. In justice to the Author I subjoin the origin

    ——— e degli amici
    Non lasciava languire i bei pensieri.