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1770–1850

TO THE RIVER DERWENT

William Wordsworth

Among the mountains were we nursed, loved Stream! Thou near the eagle's nest— within brief sail, I, of his bold wing floating on the gale, Where thy deep voice could lull me! Faint the beam

Of human life when first allowed to gleam On mortal notice.— Glory of the vale, Such thy meek outset, with a crown, though frail, Kept in perpetual verdure by the steam

Of thy soft breath!— Less vivid wreath entwined Nemaean victor's brow;less bright was worn, Meed of some Roman chief — in triumph borne With captives chained; and shedding from his car

The sunset splendours of a finished war Upon the proud enslavers of mankind!

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TO THE RIVER DERWENT · William Wordsworth · Poetry Cove