 Book VIII. OF THE EXCURSION by William Wordsworth THE PARSONAGE This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. The pensive skeptic of the lonely veil to those acknowledgments subscribed his own. With a sedate compliance which the priest failed not to notice, Inly pleased, and said, If ye by whom invited I began these narratives of calm and humble life be satisfied, tis well, the end is gained. And in return for sympathy bestowed and patient listening thanks except for me. Life, death, eternity, momentous themes are they, and might demand a seraph's tongue, were they not equal to their own support. And therefore no incompetence of mine could do them wrong. The universal forms of human nature in a spot like this present themselves at once to all men's view. Ye wished for act and circumstance that make the individual known and understood, and such as my best judgment could select from what the place afforded have been given. Though apprehensions crossed me that my zeal to his might be well likened, who unlocks a cabinet stored with gems and pictures, draws his treasures forth soliciting regard to this and this as worthier than the last, till the spectator who, a while was pleased more than the exhibitor himself, becomes weary and faint and longs to be released. But let us hence, my dwelling is in sight, and there, at this the solitary shrunk with backward will, but wanting not address that inward motion to disguise, he said to his compatriot, smiling as he spake, the peaceable remains of this good night would be disturbed I fear with wrathful scorn if consciousness could reach him where he lies. That one, albeit of these degenerate times deploring changes past or dreading change foreseen, had dared to couple, even in thought the fine vocation of the sword and lance, with the gross aims and body-bending toil of a poor brotherhood who walked the earth pitied, and where they are not known, despised. Yet by the good night's leave the two estates are graced with some resemblance, errant those, exiles and wanderers, and the like are these, who with their birthing traverse hill and dale, carrying relief for nature's simple wants. Let though no higher recompense be sought than honest maintenance by irksome toil full oft procured, yet may they claim respect among the intelligent for what this course enables them to be and to perform. Their tardy steps give leisure to observe, while solitude permits the mind to feel, instructs and prompts her to supply defects by the division of her inward self for grateful converse. And to these poor men, nature, I but repeat your favorite boast, is bountiful. Go where so ere they may. Kind nature's various wealth is all their own, versed in the characters of men, and bound by ties of daily interest to maintain conciliatory manners and smooth speech. Such have been, and still are in their degree, examples efficacious to refined rude intercourse, apt agents to expel, by importation of unlooked-for arts, barbarian torpor and blind prejudice, raising through just gradation, savage life to rustic and the rustic to her bane. Within their moving magazines is lodged power that comes forth to quicken and exult affections seated in the mother's breast and in the lover's fancy. And to feed the sober sympathies of long-tried friends, by these itinerants, as experienced men, counsel is given. Contention they appease with gentle language. In remotest wilds tears wipe away and pleasant tidings bring. Could the proud quest of chivalry do more? Happy, rejoined the wanderer, they who gain a panagyric from your generous tongue. But if to these wayfarers once pertained ought of romantic interest, it is gone. Their pure service in this realm at least is past forever. An event of age has wrought, if not with speed of magic, yet to most strange issues. I have lived to mark a new and unforeseen creation rise from out the labours of a peaceful land, wielding her potent enginery, to frame and to produce, with appetite as keen as that of war which rests not night or day industrious to destroy. With fruitless pains might one like me now visit many attract, which in his youth he trod, and trod again, alone pedestrian with a scanty freight, wished for, or welcome, wheresoer he came, among the tenetry of Thorpe and Ville. Or straggling burg of ancient charter proud, and dignified by battlements and towers of some stern castle, moldering on the brow of a green hill or bank of rugged stream. The footpath faintly marked, the horse-track wild and formidable length of plashy lane, prized avenues ere others had been shaped or easier links connecting place with place. Have vanished, swallowed up by stately roads, easy and bold, that penetrate the gloom of Britain's farthest glens. The earth has lent her waters, ere her breezes, and the sale of traffic glides with ceaseless intercourse, glistening along the low and woody dale, or, in its progress, on the lofty side of some bare hill, with wonder kenned from far. Meanwhile, at social industry's command, how quick, how vast an increase, from the germ of some poor hamlet rapidly produced here a huge town, continuous and compact, hiding the face of earth for leagues, and there, where not a habitation stood before, abodes of men irregularly massed, like trees and forests, spread through spacious tracts, or which the smoke of unremitting fires hangs permanent and plentiful as wreaths of vapor glittering in the morning sun, and where sore the traveller turns his steps, he sees the barren wilderness erased, or disappearing. Triumph that proclaims how much the mild directress of the plough owes to alliance with these newborn arts. Hence is the wide sea peopled. Hence the shores of Britain are resorted to by ships freighted from every climate of the world with the world's choicest produce. Hence that sum of keels that rest within her crowded ports, or ride at anchor in her sounds and bays, that animating spectacle of sales that, through her inland regions, to and fro pass with the respirations of the tide, perpetual, multitudinous. Finally, hence a dread arm of floating power, a voice of thunder daunting those who would approach with hostile purposes the blessed isle, truths consecrated residents, the seat impregnable of liberty and peace. And yet, O happy pastor of a flock faithfully watched, and by that loving care and heaven's good providence preserved from taint, with you I grieve when on the darker side of this great change I look, and there behold such outrage done to nature as compels the indignant power to justify herself, yea, to avenge her violated rights for England's bane. When soothing darkness spreads o'er hill and veil the wanderer thus expressed his recollections, and the punctual stars, while all things else are gathering to their homes advance, and in the firmament of heaven glitter, but undisturbing, undisturbed. As if their silent company were charged with peaceful admonitions for the heart of all beholding man, earth's thoughtful lord. Then in full many a region, once like this the assured domain of calm simplicity and pensive quiet, an unnatural light prepared for never resting labor's eyes breaks from a many-windowed fabric huge. And at the appointed hour a bell is heard, of harsher import than the curfew knoll that spake the Norman conqueror's stern behest. A local summons to unceasing toil. Discorged are now the ministers of day, and as they issue from the illumined pile, a fresh band meets them at the crowded door, and in the courts, and where the rumbling stream that turns the multitude of dizzy wheels glares like a troubled spirit in its bed among the rocks below. Men, maidens, youths, mother and little children, boys and girls enter, and each the wanted task resumes within this temple, whereas offered up to gain the master idol of the realm, perpetual sacrifice. Even thus of old our ancestors within the still domain of vast cathedral or conventional church, their vigils kept, where tapers day and night on the dim altar burned continually in token that the house was ever more watching to God. Religious men were they, nor would their reason tutored to aspire above this transitory world allow that there should pass a moment of the year when in their land the Almighty's service ceased. Triumph who will in these profaneer rites which we, a generation self-extolled as zealously perform, I cannot share his proud complacency. Yet do I exult, casting reserve away, exult to see an intellectual mastery exercised over the blind elements, a purpose given, a perseverance fed, almost a soul imparted, to brute matter. I rejoice, measuring the force of those gigantic powers that by the thinking mind have been compelled to serve the will of feeble bodied man. For with the sense of admiration blends the animating hope that time may come when strengthened yet not dazzled by the might of this dominion over nature gained, men of all lands shall exercise the same in due proportion to their country's need. Learning, though late, that all true glory rests, all praise, all safety, and all happiness upon the moral law, Egyptian thieves tired by the margin of the sounding waves, Palmyra, central in the desert, fell, and the arts died by which they had been raised. Call Archimedes from his buried tomb upon the grave of vanished Syracuse, and, feelingly, the sage shall make report how insecure, how baseless in itself is the philosophy whose sway depends on mere material instruments, how weak those arts and high inventions if unpropped by virtue. He, sighing with pensive grief, amid his calm abstractions, would admit that not the slender privilege is theirs to save themselves from blank forgetfulness. When, from the wanderer's lips these words had fallen, I said, and did in truth those vaunted arts possess such privilege, how could we escape sadness and keen regret, we who revere and who would preserve as things above all price the old domestic morals of the land, her simple manners, and the stable worth that dignified and cheered aloha state. O, where is now the character of peace, sobriety, and order, and chaste love, and honest dealing, and untainted speech, and pure good will, and hospitable cheer, that made the very thought of country life a thought of refuge for a mind detained reluctantly amid the bustling crowd, where now the beauty of the Sabbath kept with conscientious reverence, as a day by the almighty lawgiver pronounced holy and blessed, and where the winning grace of all the lighter ornaments attached to time and season as the year rolled round, fled, was the wanderer's passionate response, fled utterly, or only to be traced in a few fortunate retreats like this, which I behold with trembling when I think what lamentable change, a year, a month, may bring. That brook converting as it runs into an instrument of deadly bane for those who yet, untempted to forsake the simple occupations of their sires, drink the pure water of its innocent stream with lip almost as pure. Domestic bliss, or call it comfort by a humbler name, how art thou blighted for the poor man's heart, lo, in such neighborhood from mourn to eave the habitations empty, or perchance the mother left alone no helping hand to rock the cradle of her peevish babe, no daughters round her busy at the wheel, or in dispatch of each day's little growth of household occupation, no nice arts of needlework, no bustle at the fire where once the dinner was prepared with pride, nothing to speed the day or cheer the mind, nothing to praise, to teach, or to command. The father, if perchance he still retain his old employments, goes to field or wood, no longer led or followed by the sons. Idlers perchance they were, but in his sight. Breathing fresh air, and treading the green earth, till their short holiday of childhood ceased, nair to return. That birth right now is lost. This will tell you that the state thrives by the forfeiture, unfeeling thought and false as monstrous. Can the mother thrive by the destruction of her innocent sons in whom a premature necessity blocks out the forms of nature, pre-consumes the reason, famishes the heart, shuts up the infant being in itself, and makes its very spring a season of decay? The lot is wretched, the conditions sad, whether a pining discontent survive and thirst for change, or habit half subdued the soul depressed, dejected, even to love of her close tasks and long captivity. O banish far such wisdom as condemns a native Britain to these inward chains, fixed in his soul so early and so deep, without his own consent or knowledge fixed. He is a slave to whom release comes not and cannot come. The boy, where he turns, is still a prisoner. When the wind is up among the clouds and roars through the ancient woods, or when the sun is shining in the east quiet and calm, behold him! In the school of his attainments? No. But with the air fanning his temples under heaven's blue arch. His raiment, whitened oar with cotton flakes or locks of wool, announces once he comes, creeping his gate and cowering, his lip pale, his respiration quick and audible. And scarcely could you fancy that a gleam could break from out those languid eyes or a blush mantle upon his cheek. Is this the form? Is that the countenance and such the port of no mean being? One who should be clothed with dignity befitting his proud hope? Who in his very childhood should appear sublime from present purity and joy? The limbs increase, but liberty of mind is gone forever, and this organic frame so joyful in its motions is become dull to the joy of her own motions dead, and even the touch so exquisitely poured through the whole body where the languid will performs its functions, rarely competent to impress a vivid feeling on the mind of what there is delightful in the breeze. The gentle visitations of the sun, or laps of liquid element, by hand, or foot or lip in summer's warmth, perceived. Can hope look forward to a manhood raised on such foundations? Hope is none for him, the pale recluse indignantly exclaimed, and tens of thousands suffer wrong as deep. Yet be it asked, injustice to our age, if there were not before those arts appeared, these structures rose, commingling old and young, and unripe sex with sex for mutual taint. If there were not, then, in our far famed isle multitudes who from infancy had breathed air unemprisoned, and had lived at large, yet walked beneath the sun in human shape as abject as degraded? At this day who shall enumerate the crazy huts and tottering hovels once do issue forth a ragged offspring, with their upright hair crowned like the image of fantastic fear? Or wearing, shall we say, in that white growth and ill-adjusted turban for defence or fierceness, wreathed around their sun-burnt brows by savage nature? Shriveled are their lips, naked and coloured like the soil the feet on which they stand. As if thereby they drew some nourishment as trees do by their roots, from earth, the common mother of us all, figure and mean, complexion and attire, are leagued to strike dismay, but outstretched hand and whining voice denote them supplicants for the least boon that pity can bestow. Such on the breast of darksome heaths are found, and with their parents occupy the skirts of furs-clad commons. Such are born and reared at the mine's mouth under impending rocks, or dwell in chambers of some natural cave, or where their ancestors erected huts for the convenience of unlawful gain in forest-perlews, and the like are bred, all england through, where nooks and slips of ground perloined, in times less jealous than our own, from the green margin of the public way, a residence afford them mid the bloom and gaiety of cultivated fields. Such we will hope the lowest in the scale do I remember off times to have seen mid-Buckston's dreary heights. In earnest watch, till the swift vehicle approach they stand, then following closely with the cloud of dust, an uncouth feet exhibit and are gone, heels overhead, like tumblers on a stage. Up from the ground they snatch the copper coin and, on the freight of merry passengers, fixing a steady eye, maintain their speed, and spin, and pant, and overhead again, wild perseverance, until their breath is lost, or bounty tires, and every face that smiled encouragement hath ceased to look that way. But like the vagrants of the gypsy tribe, these, bred to little pleasure in themselves, are profitless to others. Turn we then to Britain's born and bred within the pale of civil polity, and early trained to earn by wholesome labor in the field the bread they eat. A sample should I give of what this stock hath long produced to enrich the tender age of life, ye would exclaim, is this the whistling plow-boy whose shrill notes in part now gladness to the morning air? Forgive me if I venture to suspect that many, sweet to hear of in soft verse, are of no finer frame. Stiff are his joints, beneath a cumbrous frock that to the knees invests the thriving churl, his legs appear, fellows to those that lustily upheld the wooden stools for everlasting use, whereon our fathers sate, and mark his brow, under whose shaggy canopy are set two eyes, not dim, but of a healthy stare, wide, sluggish, blank, and ignorant, and strange, proclaiming boldly that they never drew a look or motion of intelligence from infant conning of the Christ Cross Row. Or puzzling through a primer, line by line, till perfect mastery crown the pains at last. Not kindly warmth from touch of fostering hand, what penetrating power of sun or breeze, shall air dissolve the crust wherein his soul sleeps, like a caterpillar sheathed in ice. This torpor is no pitiable work of modern ingenuity. No town nor crowded city can be taxed with ought of Scottish vice or desperate breach of law, to which, and who can tell where or how soon, he may be roused. This boy the fields produce. His spade and hoe, madic and glittering scythe, the carters whip that on his shoulder rests in air high-towering with a boorish pomp. The scepter of his sway, his country's name, her equal rights, her churches and her schools, what have they done for him? And let me ask for tens of thousands, uninformed as he. In brief, what liberty of mind is here? This ardent sally pleased the mild, good man, to whom the appeal couched in its closing words was pointedly addressed, and to the thoughts that innocent or opposition rose within his mind he seemed prepared to give prompt utterance, but the vicar interposed with invitation urgently renewed. We followed, taking as he led, a path along a hedge of hollies dark and tall, whose flexile bows, low bending with a weight of leafy spray, concealed the stems and roots that gave them when frosty winds howl from the north what kindly warmth me thought is here, how grateful this impervious screen. Not shaped by simple wearing of the foot on rural business passing to and fro was the commodious walk. A careful hand had marked the line and strewn its surface ore with pure cerulean gravel from the heights fetched by a neighboring brook. Across the veil the stately fence accompanied our steps, and thus the pathway by perennial green guarded and graced seemed fashioned to unite, as by a beautiful yet solemn chain the pastor's mansion with the house of prayer. Like image of solemnity conjoined with feminine allurement soft and fair the mansion's self-displayed, a reverent pile with bold projections and recesses deep, shadowy, yet gay and lightsome as it stood fronting the noontide sun. We paused to admire the pillared porch elaborately embossed, the low wide windows with their millions old, the cornice richly fretted of grey stone, and that smooth slope from which the dwelling rose by beds and banks arcadian of gay flowers and flowering shrubs protected and adorned. Perfusion bright, and every flower assuming a more than natural vividness of hue from unaffected contrast with the gloom of sober cypress and the darker foil of you in which survived some traces here not unbecoming of grotesque device and uncouth fancy. From behind the roof rose the slim ash and massy sycamore, blending their diverse foliage with the green of ivy, flourishing and thick that clasped the huge round chimneys harbour of delight for wren and red breast, where they sit and sing their slender ditties when the trees are bare. Nor must I leave untouched the picture else were incomplete, a relic of old times happily spared, a little gothic niche of nicest workmanship that once had held the sculptured image of some patron saint, or of the blessed virgin, looking down on all who entered those religious doors. But lo, where from the rocky garden-mount crowned by its antique summer-house descends light as the silver fawn a radiant girl. For she hath recognized her honoured friend, the wanderer ever welcome, a prompt kiss the gladsome child bestows at his request, and up the flowery lawn as we advance hangs on the old man with a happy look. And with the pretty, restless hand of love we enter, by the lady of the place cordially greeted. Graceful was her port, a lofty stature undepressed by time whose visitation had not wholly spared the finer linements of form and face. To that complexion brought, which prudence trusts in and wisdom loves, but when a stately ship sails in smooth weather by the placid coast on homeward voyage, what if wind and wave and hardship undergone in various climes have caused her to abate the virgin pride, and that full trim of inexperienced hope with which she left her haven, not for this, should the sun strike her and the impartial breeze play on her streamers, fails she to assume brightness and touching beauty of her own, that charm all eyes. So bright, so fair, appeared this goodly matron shining in the beams of unexpected pleasure, soon the board was spread and we partook a plain repast. Here, resting in cool shelter, we beguiled the midday hours with desultory talk, from trivial themes to general argument passing, as accident or fancy-led, or courtesy prescribed. While question rows and answer flowed, the fetters of reserve dropping from every mind, the solitary resumed the manners of his happier days, and in the various conversation bore a willing, nay at times a forward part. But with the grace of one who in the world had learned the art of pleasing, and had now occasion given him to display his skill, upon the steadfast, vantage-ground of truth, he gazed, with admiration unsuppressed, upon the landscape of the sun-bright veil seen from the shady room in which we sat, in softened perspective. And more than once praised the consummate harmony serene of gravity and elegance diffused around the mansion and its whole domain. Not doubtless without help of female taste and female care. A blessed lot is yours, the words escaped his lip, with a tender sigh breathed over them. But suddenly the door flew open and a pair of lusty boys appeared, confusion checking their delight. Not brothers they in feature or attire, but fond companions, so I guessed, in field, and by the river's margin, whence they come, mean anglers with unusual spoil elated. One bears a willow pannier, on his back, the boy of plainer garb, whose blush survives more deeply tinged. Twin might the other be to that fair girl who from the garden-mount bounded. Triumphant entry this for him. Between his hands he holds a smooth blue stone, on whose capacious surface sea outspread large store of gleaming crimson-spotted trouts, ranged side by side and lessening by degrees up to the dwarf that tops the pinnacle. Upon the board he lays the sky-blue stone with its rich freight. Their number he proclaims tells from what pool the noblest had been dragged, and where the very monarch of the brook after long struggle had escaped at last. Stealing alternately at them and us, as doth his comrades, too, a look of pride, and verily the silent creatures made a splendid sight, together thus exposed. Dead, but not solid or deformed by death. That seemed to pity what he could not spare. But oh the animation in the mean of those two boys, yea in the very words with which the young narrator was inspired, when, as our questions led, he told at large of that day's prowess. Him might I compare his looks, tones, gestures, eager eloquence to a bold brook that splits for better speed, and at the self-same moment works its way through many channels, ever and anon, parted and reunited, his compare to the still lake, whose stillness is to sight as beautiful as grateful to the mind. But to what objects shall the lovely girl be likened? She whose countenance and air unite the graceful qualities of both, even as she shares the pride and joy of both. My grey-haired friend was moved. His vivid eye glistened with tenderness, his mind I knew was full, and had I doubted not returned upon this impulse to the theme, erewhile abruptly broken off. The ruddy boys withdrew on summons to their well-earned meal, and he, to whom all tongues resigned their rights with willingness to whom the general ear listened with readier patience than to strain of music, lute, or harp, a long delight that ceased not when his voice had ceased, as one who from truth's central point serenely views the compass of his argument began mildly, and with a clear and steady tone. End of Book VIII. Recording by Bill Borscht Book IX. Of the Excursion by William Wordsworth Discourse of the Wanderer and an Evening Visit to the Lake. To every form of being is assigned, thus calmly spake the venerable sage, an active principal. How air removed from sense and observation it subsists in all things, and in all natures. In the stars of azure heaven, the unenduring clouds and flower and tree, in every pebbly stone that paves the brooks, the stationary rocks, the moving waters, and the invisible air. What air exists hath properties that spread beyond itself, communicating good, a simple blessing, or with evil mixed. Spirit that knows no insulated spot, no chasm, no solitude. From link to link it circulates, the soul of all the worlds. This is the freedom of the universe. Unfolded still the more, more visible, the more we know, and yet is reverenced least, and least respected in the human mind, its most apparent home. The food of hope is meditated action, robbed of this her soul support she languishes and dies. We perish also, for we live by hope and by desire. We see by the glad light and breathe the sweet air of futurity. And so we live, or else we have no life. Tomorrow, nay perchance this very hour, for every moment hath its own tomorrow, those blooming boys whose hearts are almost sick with present triumph will be sure to find a field before them freshened with the dew of other expectations, in which course their happy year spins round. The youth obeys a like glad impulse, and so moves the man mid all his apprehensions, cares, and fears, or so he ought to move. Ah! Why in age do we revert so fondly to the walks of childhood? But that there the soul discerns the dear memorial footsteps unimpaired of her own native vigor. Fence can hear reverberations, and a choral song commingling with the incense that ascends undaunted toward the imperishable heavens from her own lonely altar. Do not think that good and wise ever will be allowed, though strength decay to breathe in such estate as shall divide them wholly from the stir of hopeful nature. Rightly it is said that man descends into the veil of years. Yet have I thought that we might also speak, and not presumptuously, I trust of age as of a final eminence, though bare in aspect and forbidding yet a point on which it is not impossible to sit in awful sovereignty. A place of power, a throne that may be likened unto his, who in some placid day of summer looks down from a mountaintop, say one of those high peaks that bound the veil where now we are, faint and diminished to the gazing eye, forest and field, and hill and dale appear, with all the shapes over their surface spread. But while the gross and visible frame of things relinquishes its hold upon the scents, yea almost on the mind herself, and seems all unsubstantialized, how loud the voice of waters with invigorated peel from the full river in the veil below ascending. For on that superior height who sits is disencumbered from the press of near obstructions, and is privileged to breathe in solitude above the host of ever-humming insects, mid-thin air that suits not them. The murmur of the leaves many and idle visits not his ear. This he is freed from, and from thousand notes, not less unceasing, not less vain than these, by which the finer passages of sense are occupied, and the soul that would incline to listen is prevented or deterred, and may it not be hoped that, placed by age and like removal, tranquil though severe, we are not so removed for utter loss. But for some favor, suited to our need, what more than that the severing should confer fresh power to commune with the invisible world, and hear the mighty stream of tendency uttering for elevation of our thought a clear, sonorous voice inaudible to the vast multitude, whose doom it is to run the giddy round of vain delight or fret and labor on the plain below. But if, to such sublime assent, the hopes of man may rise as to a welcome close and termination of his mortal course, them only can such hope inspire whose minds have not been starved by absolute neglect, nor bodies crushed by unremitting toil, to whom kind nature therefore may afford proof of the sacred love she bears for all, whose birthright reason therefore may ensure. For me, consulting what I feel within in times when most existence with herself is satisfied, I cannot but believe that far as kindly nature hath free scope and reasons sway predominates. Even so far, country, society, and time itself, that saps the individual's bodily frame, and lays the generations low in dust, due by the almighty ruler's grace partake of one maternal spirit, bringing forth and cherishing with ever constant love that tires not nor betrays. Our life is turned out of her course, wherever man is made an offering or a sacrifice, a tool or implement, a passive thing employed as a brute mean, without acknowledgment of common right or interest in the end. As selfishness may prompt, say, what can follow for a rational soul perverted thus but weakness in all good, and strength in evil. Hence an after-call for chastisement and custody and bonds and oft times death, avenger of the past, and the soul-guardian in whose hands we dare and trust the future, not for these sad issues was man created, but to obey the law of life and hope and action. And it is known that when we stand upon our native soil, un-elbowed by such objects as oppress our active powers, those powers themselves become strong to subvert our noxious qualities. They sweep distemper from the busy day, and make the chalice of the big round year run o'er with gladness, whence the being moves in beauty through the world, and all who see bless him rejoicing in his neighborhood. Then, said the solitary, by what force of language shall a feeling heart express her sorrow for that multitude in whom we look for health from seeds that have been sown in sickness and for increase in a power that works but by extinction? On themselves they cannot lean nor turn to their own hearts to know what they must do, their wisdom is to look into the eyes of others, thence to be instructed what they must avoid. Or rather, let us say, how least observed, how with most quiet and most silent death, with the least taint and injury to the air, the oppressor breathes their human form divine, and their immortal soul may waste away. The sage rejoined, I thank you. You have spared my voice the utterance of a keen regret, a wide compassion which with you I share. When here to fore I placed before your sight a little one subjected to the arts of modern ingenuity, and made the senseless member of a vast machine serving as doth a spindle or a wheel, think not that pitying him, I could forget the rustic boy who walks the fields untaught, the slave of ignorance and oft of want and miserable hunger. Much too much of this unhappy lot and early youth we both have witnessed, lot which I myself shared, though in mild and merciful degree. Yet was the mind to hindrances exposed, through which I struggled, not without distress and sometimes injury, like a lamb and thralled mid-thorns and brambles, or a bird that breaks through a strong net and mounts upon the wind, though with their plumes impaired. If they, whose souls should open while they range the richer fields of merry England, are obstructed less by indigence their ignorance is not less, nor less to be deplored. For who can doubt that tens of thousands at this day exist such as the bore you painted, lineal heirs of those who once were vassals of her soil, following its fortunes like the beasts or trees which it sustained? But no one takes delight in this oppression, none are proud of it, it bears no sounding name, nor ever bore, a standing grievance, an indigenous vice of every country under heaven. My thoughts were turned to evils that are new and chosen, a bondage lurking under shape of good, arts in themselves, beneficent and kind, but all too fondly followed and too far, to victims which the merciful can see nor think that they are victims turned to wrongs by women who have children of their own be held without compassion, yea with praise. I spake of mischief, by the wise diffuse with gladness, thinking that the more it spreads, the healthier the secureer we become, delusion which a moment may destroy. Lastly I mourn for those whom I had seen corrupted and cast down on favored ground, where circumstance and nature had combined to shelter innocence and cherished love. Who but for this intrusion would have lived possessed of health and strength and peace of mind, thus would have lived or never had been born? Alas! What differs more than man from man? And whence that difference? Whence but from himself? For see the universal race endowed with the same upright form. The sun is fixed, and the infinite magnificence of heaven fixed, within reach of every human eye. The sleepless ocean murmurs for all ears. The vernal field infuses fresh delight into all hearts. Throughout the world of sense, even as an object is sublime or fair, that object is laid open to the view without reserve or veil. And as a power is salutary or an influence sweet, are each and all enabled to perceive that power that influenced by impartial law. Gifts nobler are vouchsafed alike to all. Reason and with that reason smiles and tears. Imagination, freedom in the will, conscience to guide and check, and death to be foretasted, immortality conceived by all. A blissful immortality to them whose holiness on earth shall make the spirit capable of heaven assured. Strange then, nor less than monstrous might be deemed the failure if the Almighty to this point, liberal and undistinguishing, should hide the excellence of moral qualities from common understanding. Leaving truth and virtue difficult, obstruous and dark, hard to be one and only by a few, strange should he deal herein with nice respects and frustrate all the rest. Believe it not. The primal duties shine aloft, like stars. The charities that soothe and heal and bless are scattered at the feet of man, like flowers. The generous inclination, the just rule, kind wishes and good actions and pure thoughts. No mystery is here. Here is no boon for high, yet not for low. For proudly graced, yet not for meek of heart. The smoke ascends to heaven as lightly from the cottage hearth as from the haughtiest palace. He whose soul ponders this true equality may walk the fields of earth with gratitude and hope. Yet in that meditation will he find motive to sadder grief as we have found, lamenting ancient virtues overthrown and for the injustice grieving that hath made so wide a difference between man and man. Then let us rather fix our gladdened thoughts upon the brighter scene. How blessed that pair of blooming boys, whom we beheld even now, blessed in their several and their common lot. A few short hours of each returning day the thriving prisoners of their village school, and thence let loose to seek their pleasant homes arrange the grassy lawn and vacancy. To breathe and to be happy, run and shout idle. But no delay, no harm, no loss. For every genial power of heaven and earth through all the seasons of the changeful year, obsequiously doth take upon herself to labor for them, bringing each in turn the tribute of enjoyment, knowledge, health, beauty, or strength. Such privileges there is granted alike in the outset of their course to both. And if that partnership must cease, I grieve not, to the pastor here he turned. Such as I glory in that child of yours, repine not for his cottage comrade, whom be like no higher destiny awaits than the old hereditary wish fulfilled. The wish for liberty to live, content with what heaven grants and die in peace of mind within the bosom of his native veil. At least whatever fate the noon of life reserves for either, sure it is that both have been permitted to enjoy the dawn. Here regarded as a jockened time, that in itself may terminate or lead in course of nature to a sober eve. Both have been fairly dealt with, looking back they will allow that justice has in them been shown alike to body and to mind. He paused, as if revolving in his soul some weighty matter. Then with fervent voice and an impassioned majesty exclaimed, O, for the coming of that glorious time when prizing knowledge as her noblest wealth and best protection this imperial realm, while she exacts allegiance, shall admit an obligation on her part to teach them who are born to serve her and obey. Binding herself by statute to secure for all the children whom her soil maintains the rudiments of letters and informed the mind with moral and religious truth, both understood and practiced, so that none, however destitute, be left to droop by timely culture unsustained. Or run into a wild disorder, or be forced to drudge through a weary life without the help of intellectual implements and tools, a savage hoard among the civilized, a servile band among the lordly free. This sacred rite, the lisping babe, proclaims to be inherent in him by heaven's will for the protection of his innocence, and the rude boy who, having overpassed the sinless age by consciences enrolled, yet mutinously knits his angry brow and lifts his willful hand on mischief bent. Or turns the godlike faculty of speech to impious use, by process indirect declares his due while he makes known his need. This sacred rite is fruitlessly announced, this universal plea in vain addressed to the eyes and ears of parents who themselves did, in the time of their necessity, urge it in vain, and therefore, like a prayer that from the humblest floor ascends to heaven, it mounts to reach the state's parental ear, who if indeed she own a mother's heart and be not most unfeelingly devoid of gratitude to providence, will grant the unquestionable good. Which England, safe from interference of external force, may grant at leisure, without risk incurred, that what in wisdom for herself she doth, others shall ere be able to undo. Look, and behold, from calp's sunburnt cliffs to the flat margin of the Baltic Sea, long reverenced titles cast away as weeds, laws overturned, and territory split like fields of ice rent by the polar wind, and forced to join in less obnoxious shapes, which ere they gain consistence by a gust of the same breath are shattered and destroyed. In time the sovereignty of these fair aisles remains entire and indivisible. And if that ignorance were removed which breeds within the compass of their several shores dark discontent, or loud commotion, each might still preserve the beautiful repose of heavenly bodies shining in their spheres. The discipline of slavery is unknown among us, hence the more do we require the discipline of virtue. Other else cannot subsist nor confidence nor peace, thus duties rising out of good possessed and prudent caution needful to avert impending evil equally require that the whole people should be taught and trained. So shall licentiousness and black resolve be rooted out and virtuous habits take their place, and genuine piety descend like an inheritance from age to age. With such foundations laid avant the fear of numbers crowded on their native soil, to the prevention of all healthful growth through mutual injury, rather in the law of increase and the mandate from above rejoice, and ye have special cause for joy, for as the element of air affords an easy passage to the industrious bees fraught with their berthens, and a way as smooth for those ordained to take their sounding flight from the thronged hive and settle where they list in fresh abodes, their labor to renew. So the wide waters open to the power, the will, the instincts and appointed needs of Britain, do invite her to cast off her swarms, and in succession send them forth, bound to establish new communities on every shore whose aspect favors hope or bold adventure, promising to skill and perseverance their deserved reward. Yes, he continued kindling as he spake, change wide and deep and silently performed this land shall witness, and as days roll on earth's universal frame shall feel the effect, even till the smallest habitable rock, beaten by lonely billows, hear the songs of humanized society, and bloom with civil arts that shall breathe forth their fragrance, a grateful tribute to all ruling heaven. From culture, unexclusively bestowed on Albion's noble race and freedom-born, expect these mighty issues, from the pains and faithful care of unambitious schools instructing simple childhoods ready ear, fence, look for these magnificent results, vast the circumference of hope. And ye are at its center, British lawgivers. Ah, sleep not there in shame, shall wisdom's voice from out the bosom of these troubled times repeat the dictates of her calmer mind, and shall the venerable halls ye feel refuse to echo the sublime decree. Trust not to partial care a general good. Transfer not to futurity a work of urgent need. Your country must complete her glorious destiny. Begin even now, now when oppression like the Egyptian plague of darkness, stretch or guilty Europe, makes the brightness more conspicuous that invests the happy island where ye think and act. Now when destruction is a prime pursuit, show to the wretched nations for what end the powers of civil polity were given. Abruptly here, but with a graceful air, the sage broke off. No sooner had he ceased than looking forth the gentle lady said, Behold the shades of afternoon have fallen upon this flowery slope. And see, beyond, the silvery lake is streaked with placid blue as if preparing for the peace of evening. How temptingly the landscape shines, the air breathes invitation, easy as the walk to the lake's margin where a boat lies moored under a sheltering tree. Upon this hint we rose together, all were pleased, but most the beauteous girl whose cheek was flushed with joy light as a sunbeam glides along the hills, she vanished. Eager to impart the scheme to her loved brother and his shy compare. Now was there bustle in the vicar's house and earnest preparation, forth we went, and down the veil along the streamlet's edge pursued our way. A broken company, mute or conversing, single or in pairs. Thus having reached a bridge that over arched the hasty rivulet where it lay be calmed in a deep pool, by happy chance we saw a twofold image. On a grassy bank a snow-white ram, and in the crystal flood another and the same. Most beautiful, on the green turf with his imperial front shaggy and bold, and wreathed horns superb, the breathing creature stood. As beautiful beneath him shewed his shadowy counterpart. Each had his glowing mountains, each his sky, and each seemed center of his own fair world, antipodes unconscious of each other, yet in partition with their several spheres blended in perfect stillness to our sight. Ah! what a pity were it to disperse, or to disturb so fair a spectacle, and yet a breath can do it! These few words the lady whispered, while we stood and gazed gathered together all in still delight, not without awe. Fence passing on she said, in like low voice to my particular ear, I love to hear that eloquent old man pour forth his meditations, and descant on human life from infancy to age, how pure his spirit! In what vivid hues his mind gives back the various forms of things caught in their fairest, happiest attitude. While he is speaking I have power to see even as he sees. But when his voice hath ceased, then with a sigh, sometimes I feel, as now, that combinations so serene and bright cannot be lasting in a world like ours, whose highest beauty, beautiful as it is, like that reflected in Yan quiet pool, seems but a fleeting sunbeam's gift, whose peace the sufferance only of a breath of air. More head she said, but sportive shouts were heard sent from the jockened hearts of those two boys, who, bearing each a basket on his arm, down the green field came tripping after us. With caution we embarked, and now the pair for prouder service was addressed, but each, wishful to leave an opening for my choice, dropped the light or his eager hand had seized. Thanks given for that becoming courtesy, their place I took, and for a grateful office pregnant with recollections of the time when, on thy bosom spacious windermere, a youth, I practised this delightful art. Tossed on the waves alone, or mid a crew of joyous comrades, soon as the reedy march was cleared I dipped with arms accordant oars free from obstruction, and the boat advanced through crystal water smoothly as a hawk, that, disentangled from the shady boughs of some thick wood, or place of covert, cleaves with correspondent wings the abyss of air. Observe, the vicar said, yon rocky aisle with birch trees fringed. My hand shall guide the helm while thitherward we shape our course, or while we seek that other on the western shore, where the bare columns of those lofty firs supporting gracefully a massy dome of somber foliage seemed to imitate a Grecian temple rising from the deep. Learn where we may, said I, we cannot air in this delicious region. Cultured slopes, wild tracks of forest ground and scattered groves and mountains bare or clothed with ancient woods, surrounded us, and, as we held our way along the level of the glassy flood, they ceased not to surround us, change of place from kindred features diversely combined, producing change of beauty ever new. Ah, that such beauty varying in the light of living nature cannot be portrayed by words nor by the pencil's silent skill. But is the property of him alone who hath beheld it, noted it with care, and in his mind recorded it with love. Suffice it, therefore, if the rural muse vouchsafe sweet influence, while her poet speaks of trivial occupations well devised, and unsought pleasures springing up by chance, as if some friendly genius had ordained that, as the day thus far had been enriched by acquisition of sincere delight, the same should be continued to its close. One spirit animating old and young, a gypsy fire we kindled on the shore of the fair isle with birch trees fringed, and there merrily seated in a ring partook a choice repast, served by our young companions with rival earnestness and kindred glee. First from our hands the smooth stone skimmed the lake. With shouts we raised the echoes. Stiller sounds the lovely girl supplied, a simple song whose low tones reached not to the distant rocks to be repeated thence, but gently sank into our hearts, and charmed the peaceful flood. Rapaciously we gathered flowery spoils from land and water, lilies of each hue, golden and white that float upon the waves and court the wind, and leaves of that shy plant her flowers were shed, the lily of the veil that loves the ground and from the sun withholds her pensive beauty. From the breeze her sweets. Such product and such pastime did the place in season yield, but as we re-embarked leaving in quest of other scenes the shore of that wild spot the solitary said in a low voice, yet careless who might hear, the fire that burns so brightly to our wish, where is it now, deserted on the beach, dying or dead? Nor shall the fanning breeze revive its ashes, what care we for this whose ends are gained? Behold an emblem here of one day's pleasure and all mortal joys, and in this unpremeditated slight of that which is no longer needed see the common course of human gratitude. This plaintive note disturbed not the repose of the still evening. Right across the lake our pinnest moves. Then coasting creek and bay glades, we behold, and into thicket's peep, where couch the spotted deer, or raised our eyes to shaggy steeps on which the careless goat browsed by the side of dashing waterfalls, and thus the bark, meandering with the shore, pursued her voyage, till a natural pier of jutting rocks invited us to land. Alert to follow as the pastor led, we clome a green hill's side, and as we clome, the valley opening out her bosom gave fair prospect intercepted less and less, or the flat meadows and indented coast of the smooth lake, encompassed scene, far off and yet conspicuous stood the old church tower, in majesty presiding over fields and habitations seemingly preserved from all intrusion of the restless world by rocks impassable and mountains huge. Soft heath this elevated spots supplied, and choice of moss-clad stones whereon we couched or sat reclined, admiring quietly the general aspect of the scene, but each not seldom over anxious to make known his own discoveries. Or to favorite points directing notice, merely from a wish to impart a joy imperfect while unshared. That rapturous moment never shall I forget when these particular interests were effaced from every mind, already had the sun sinking with less than ordinary state, attained his western bound. But rays of light, now suddenly diverging from the orb retired behind the mountain tops or veiled by the dense air, shot upwards to the crown of the blue firmament, aloft and wide, and multitudes of little floating clouds, through their ethereal texture pierced. Air we, who saw, of change were conscious, had become vivid as fire, clouds separately poised, innumerable multitude of forms scattered through half the circle of the sky, and giving back and shedding each on each with prodigal communion the bright hues which from the unapparent fount of glory they had imbibed and ceased not to receive. That which the heavens displayed, the liquid deep repeated, but with unity sublime. While from the grassy mountains open side we gazed and silence hushed, with eyes intent on the refulgent spectacle diffused through earth, sky, water, and all visible space, the priest in holy transport thus exclaimed, Eternal Spirit, Universal God, power inaccessible to human thought, saved by degrees and steps which thou hast deigned to furnish, for this affluence of thyself to the infirmity of mortal sense vouchsafed. This local transitory type of thy paternal splendors, and the pomp of those who fill thy courts in highest heaven, the radiant cherubim, accept the thanks which we, thy humble creatures here convened, presumed to offer, we, who, from the breast of the frail earth permitted to behold the faint reflections only of thy face, are yet exalted, and in soul adore, such as they are who in thy presence stand unsullied, incorruptible, and drink imperishable majesty streamed forth from thy imperial throne, the elect of earth shall be divested at the appointed hour of all dishonor cleansed from mortal stain. Accomplish then their number, and conclude time's weary course, or, if, by thy decree, the consummation that will come by stealth be yet far distant, let thy word prevail, o let thy word prevail, to take away the sting of human nature, spread the law, as it is written in thy holy book, throughout all lands, let every nation hear the high behest, and every heart obey. Both for the love of purity and hope which it affords, to such as do thy will and persevere in good, that they shall rise to have a nearer view of thee in heaven. Father of good, this prayer in bounty grant, in mercy grant it to thy wretched sons, then, nor till then, shall persecution cease, and cruel wars expire. The way is marked, the guide appointed, and the ransom paid. Alas, the nations who of yore received these tidings, and in Christian temples meet the sacred truth to knowledge linger still, preferring bonds and darkness to a state of holy freedom, by redeeming love proffer to all, while yet on earth detained. So fare the many, and the thoughtful few who in the anguish of their souls bewail this dire perverseness cannot choose but ask, shall it endure? Shall enmity and strife, falsehood and guile be left to sow their seed? And the kind never perish? Is the hope fallacious, or shall righteousness obtain a peaceable dominion, wide as earth, and near to fail? Shall that blessed day arrive when they, whose choice or lot it is to dwell in crowded cities, without fear shall live studious of mutual benefit? And he, whom mourn awakens among dews and flowers of every climb to till the lonely field be happy in himself? The law of faith working through love such conquest shall it gain, such triumph over sin and guilt achieve? Almighty Lord, thy further grace impart, and with that help the wonder shall be seen fulfilled, the hope accomplished, and thy praise be sung with transport and unceasing joy. Once and with mild demeanor as he spake on us the venerable pastor turned his beaming eye that had been raised to heaven. Once while the name Jehovah was a sound within the circuit of this seagirt isle unheard, the savage nations bowed the head to God's delighting and remorseless deeds. Gods which themselves had fashioned to promote ill purposes and flatter foul desires, then in the bosom of Yon Mountain Cove to those inventions of corrupted man mysterious rites were solemnized. And there, amid impending rocks and gloomy woods of those terrific idols, some received such dismal service that the loudest voice of the swollen cataracts, which now are heard soft murmuring, was too weak to overcome, though aided by wild winds the groans and shrieks of human victims offered up to appease or to propitiate. And if living eyes had visionary faculties to see the thing that hath been as the thing that is, aghast we might behold this crystal mirror be dimmed with smoke in wreaths voluminous. Flung from the body of devouring fires to tyrannous erected on the heights by priestly hands, for sacrifice performed exultingly in view of open day and full assemblage of a barbarous host. Or to Andate's female power, who gave for so they fancied glorious victory. A few rude monuments of mountain stone survive, all else is swept away. How bright the appearances of things! From such how changed the existing worship, and with those compared the worshipers how innocent and blessed. So wide the difference a willing mind might almost think at this affecting hour that paradise the lost abode of man was raised again, and to a happy few, in its original beauty, here restored. Wents but from thee the true and only God, and from the faith derived through him who bled upon the cross this marvellous advance of good from evil, as if one extreme were left the other gained. O ye who come to kneel devoutly in yon reverend pile, called to such office by the peaceful sound of Sabbath bells, and ye who sleep in earth all cares forgotten round its hallowed walls. For you, in presence of this little band gathered together on the green hillside, your pastor is emboldened to prefer vocal thanksgivings to the eternal king. Whose love, whose counsel, whose commands have made your very poorest rich in peace of thought and in good works, and him who is endowed with scantiest knowledge master of all truth which the salvation of his soul requires. Conscious of that abundant favor showered on you the children of my humble care and this dear land, our country, while on earth we sojourn, have I lifted up my soul, joy giving voice to fervent gratitude. These barren rocks, your stern inheritance, these fertile fields, that recompense your pains, the shadowy veil, the sunny mountaintop, woods waving in the wind, their lofty heads, or hushed, the roaring waters and the still, they see the offering of my lifted hands, they hear my lips present their sacrifice, they know if I be silent, mourn or even. For though in whispers speaking the full heart will find event, and thought is praise to him, audible praise to thee, omniscient mind, from whom all gifts descend, all blessings flow. This Vesper service closed without delay from that exalted station to the plain descending we pursued our homeward course, in mute composure or the shadowy lake under a faded sky. No trace remained of those celestial splendors, gray the vault, pure cloudless ether, and the star of Eve was wanting, but inferior lights appeared faintly too faint almost for sight, and some above the darkened hills stood boldly forth in twinkling luster ere the boat attained her mooring place, where to the sheltering tree our youthful voyagers bound fast her prow with prompt yet careful hands. This done we paced the dewy fields, but ere the vicar's door was reached the solitary checked his steps, then intermingling thanks on each bestowed a farewell salutation, and the like receiving took the slender path that leads to the one cottage in the lonely dell, but turned not without welcome promise made that he would share the pleasures and pursuits of yet another summer's day, not loath to wander with us through the fertile veils and or the mountain wastes. Another sun, said he, shall shine upon us ere we part, another sun, for adventure more, if time with free consent be yours to give and season favours. To enfeebled power from this communion with uninjured minds what renovation had been brought, and what degree of healing to a wounded spirit, dejected and habitually disposed to seek in degradation of the kind, excuse and solace for her own defects. How far those erring notions were reformed, and whether ought of tendancy as good and pure from further intercourse ensued. This, if delightful hopes as heretofore inspire the serious song and gentle hearts cherish and lofty minds approve the past, my future labours may not leave untold. End of Book Ninth Recording by Bill Borscht And End of The Excursion by William Wordsworth