Sonnet LXXXIX

THE PROSPECT A FLOODED VALE.

Sonnet written in the character of Werter.

Yon late but gleaming Moon, in hoary light

Shines out unveil'd, and on the cloud's dark fleece

Rests;—but her strengthen'd beams appear to increase

The wild disorder of this troubled Night.

Redoubling Echos seem yet more to excite

The roaring Winds and Waters!—Ah! why cease

Resolves, that promis'd everlasting peace,

And drew my steps to this incumbent height?

I wish!—I shudder!—stretch my longing arms

O'er the steep cliff!—My swelling spirits brave

The leap, that quiets all these dire alarms,

And floats me tossing on the stormy wave!

But Oh! what roots my feet?—what spells, what charms

The daring purpose of my Soul enslave?