The Works of Lord Byron Volume I Part 83

8.

To think of every early scene, Of what we are, and what we've been, Would whelm some softer hearts with woe-- But mine, alas! has stood the blow; Yet still beats on as it begun, And never truly loves but one.

9.

And who that dear lov'd one may be, Is not for vulgar eyes to see; And why that early love was cross'd, Thou know'st the best, I feel the most; But few that dwell beneath the sun Have loved so long, and loved but one.

10.

I've tried another's fetters too, With charms perchance as fair to view; And I would fain have loved as well, But some unconquerable spell Forbade my bleeding breast to own A kindred care for aught but one.

11.

'Twould soothe to take one lingering view, And bless thee in my last adieu; Yet wish I not those eyes to weep For him that wanders o'er the deep; His home, his hope, his youth are gone, [iii]

Yet still he loves, and loves but one. [iv]

1809. [First published, 1809.]

[Footnote i:

'To Mrs. Musters.'

['MS.']

'To----on Leaving England.'

['Imit. and Transl.', p. 227.]

[Footnote ii:

'But friend or lover I have none'.

['Imit. and Transl'., p. 229.]]

[Footnote iii:

'Though wheresoever my bark may run, I love but thee, I love but one.'

['Imit. and Transl.', p. 230.]

'The land recedes his Bark is gone, Yet still he loves and laves but one.'

[MS.]

[Footnote iv:

'Yet far away he loves but one.'

[MS.]

ENGLISH BARDS, AND SCOTCH REVIEWERS;

A SATIRE.

BY

LORD BYRON.

"I had rather be a kitten, and cry, mew!

Than one of these same metre ballad-mongers."

SHAKESPEARE.

"Such shameless Bards we have; and yet 'tis true, There are as mad, abandon'd Critics, too."