SELECTIONS IN ENGLISH POETRY

But unsubstantial Form eludes her grasp

As often as that eager grasp was made.

The Phantom parts— but parts to re-unite,

And re-assume his place before her sight. 30

Trotesilaus, lo ! thy guide is gone !

Confirm, I pray, the vision with thy voice :

This is our palace, — yonder is thy throne ;

Speak, and the floor thou tread'st on will rejoice.

Not to appal me have the gods bestowed 35

This precious boon; and blest a sad abode.*

* Great Jove, Laodamia! doth not leave

His gifts imperfect : — Spectre though I be,

I am not sent to scare thee or deceive ;

But in reward of thy fidelity. 40

And something also did my worth obtain ;

For, fearless -*1 boundless gain.

'Thou knowest, the Delphic oracle foretold
That the first Greek who touched the Trojan strand
Should die ; but me the threat could not withhold : 45
A generous cause a victim did demand ;
And forth I leapt upon the sandy plain ;
A self-devoted chief — by Hector slain.*
'Supreme of Heroes — bravest, noblest, best !
Thy matchless courage I bewail no more, 50
Which then, when tens of thousands were deprest
By doubt, propelled thee to the fatal shore ;
Thou found'st— and I forgive thee— here thou art —
A nobler counsellor than my poor heart.
"But thou, though capable of sternest deed, 55
Wert kind as resolute, and good as brave ;
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