[Pg 52]

Oh Stenon! could my ceaseless tears restore

Thee, patriot chief to Sweden's widow'd shore!

How would I joy, amidst thy martial train,

To mow the adverse ranks, and sweep along the plain,

Tread in thy daring steps with equal fire,

Or at thy feet triumphantly expire!

But vain the wish—let hope's unfading ray

Lead my firm steps in duty's arduous way;

Pain, shame, and death, at heaven's all righteous call

I meet, and in its strength shall conquer all."

So mused the captives; while, in lordly state,

Smiling amidst his peers the monarch sate.

O'er the vast roof, with gilded rafters gay,

Unnumber'd lamps effused a mingled ray:

The dancing glory fill'd the spacious hall,

Play'd on the roof, and cheer'd the pictured wall,

[Pg 53]

With glancing beams the golden goblets shine,

The red light trembles on the sparkling wine.

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