Volume 3 — THE WARNINGS OF THE PAST.

Faint dream-like voices of the spectral Past Whisper the lessons of departed ages; Each gathering treasured wisdom from the last, A long succession of experienced sages They steal upon the statesman as he sleeps, And chant in Fancy's ear their warning numbers; When restless Thought unceasing vigil keeps, Trimming her taper while the body slumbers. They bid him listen to the tales they tell Of nations perish'd and embalm'd in story; How inly rotting they were sapp'd and fell, Like some proud oak whilome the forest's glory. Sepulchral ruins crumble where a maze Of busy streets once rang with life's commotion; Where sculptured palaces in bygone days Were gorged with spoils of conquer'd earth and ocean. For Faction rent the seamless robe of Peace, And, parting children of a common mother, Bade fealty and loving concord cease To link the hearts he sever'd from each other. Such is the burden of those solemn notes That issue from the haunted graves of nations; Where, spread by Time, a vailing shadow floats O'er spirits preaching from their ruin'd stations.