INTRODUCTION

I, who accompanied with faithful pace Cerulean Duddon from itscloud-fed spring, And loved with spirit ruled by his to sing Of mountain-quiet and boon nature's grace;

I, who essayed the nobler Stream to trace Of Liberty,and smote the plausive string Till the checked torrent, proudly triumphing, Won for herself a lasting resting-place;

Now seek upon the heights of Time the source Of a HOLY RIVER,on whose banks are found Sweet pastoral flowers, and laurels that have crowned Full oft the unworthy brow of lawless force;

And,for delight of him who tracks its course, Immortal amaranth and palms abound.