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1799–1888

EVELYN.

Amos Bronson Alcott

Much do they wrong our Henry, wise and kind, Morose who name thee, cynical to men, Forsaking manners civil and refined To build thyself in Walden woods a den,—

Then flout society, flatter the rude hind. We better knew thee, loyal citizen! Thou, friendship’ s all-adventuring pioneer, Civility itself didst civilize:

Whilst braggart boors, wavering’ twixt rage and fear, Slave hearths lay waste, and Indian huts surprise, And swift the Martyr’ s gibbet would uprear: Thou hail’ dst him great whose valorous emprise

Orion’ s blazing belt dimmed in the sky,— Then bowed thy unrepining head to die.

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EVELYN. · Amos Bronson Alcott · Poetry Cove