Through many channels, ever and anon 580 To the still lake, whose stillness is to sight My grey-haired Friend was moved; his vivid eye Glistened with tenderness; his mind, I knew, And He—to whom all tongues reserved their That ceased not when his voice had ceased-as The 600 Who from truth's central point serenely views compass of his argument—began Mildly, and with a clear and steady tone. ARGUMENT. Wanderer asserts that an active principle pervades the Universe, its noblest seat the human soul.-How lively this principle is in Childhood.-Hence the delight in old Age of looking back upon Childhood.The dignity, powers, and privileges of Age asserted. -These not to be looked for generally but under a just government.-Right of a human Creature to be exempt from being considered as a mere Instrument. -The condition of multitudes deplored.-Former conversation recurred to, and the Wanderer's opinions set in a clearer light.-Truth placed within reach of the humblest.-Equality.-Happy state of the two Boys again adverted to.-Earnest wish expressed for a System of National Education established universally by Government.-Glorious effects of this foretold.-Walk to the Lake.-Grand spectacle from the side of a hill.-Address of Priest to the Supreme Being-in the course of which he contrasts with ancient Barbarism the present appearance of the scene before him.-The change ascribed to Christianity.-Apostrophe to his flock, living and dead.Gratitude to the Almighty.--Return over the Lake.Parting with the Solitary.-Under what circum stances. DISCOURSE OF THE WANDERER, AND AN EVENING VISIT TO THE LAKE. 5 "To every Form of being is assigned," 15 A simple blessing, or with evil mixed; 25 |