Note 50 — Chapter XII
Reading edition
From these high places of his philosophy,—'the "templa serena" well-bulwarked by the learning of the wise'50 he derives not only a sense of certainty in thought and security in life, but also his wide contemplative view, and his profound feeling of the majesty of the universe. The idea of universal law enables him to apprehend in all the processes of Nature a presence which awakens reverence and enforces obedience. This idea imparts unity of tone to the whole poem, informs its language, and seems to mould the very rhythm of its verse.