Australian and Other Poems/Impromptu
IMPROMPTU.
Written after a persual of Washington Irving's "Life of Columbus."
Who war's unyielding work successful speed,
In victor's laurels still acquire their meed;
A just reward, by fame, is ever found
For wit, for eloquence, and lore profound;
While praise to statesmen due unceasing rings,
And patriots still are honoured more than kings.
Buy yet nor high renown nor splendid name
Can match, Great Sailor! thy extended fame;
For not on cities swept with wasting hand,
Nor one state ruined that the next may stand,
On certain, evil, nor on doubtful good
Subsists thy greatness, justly understood.
'Mid best achievements e'er must stand sublime,
Secure of fate—still gathering praise from time,
That effort which, strong, steadfast, and alone,
To man bequeathed a world—a refuge—home.