Poems (Betham)/To the River which separates itself from the Dee at Bedkellert

by Matilda Betham

TO THE RIVER Which separates itself from the DEE, at Bedkellert. July 19, 1799. 

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Let others hail the tranquil stream,
 Whose glassy waters smoothly flow,
And, in the undulating gleam,
 Reflect another world below!

The yellow Conway as it raves,
 Demands my tributary song!
When, rushing forth, resistless waves
 O'er rocky fragments foam along!

Like him, whose vigorous mind reviews
 The troubles which around him roll;
The ceaseless warfare still pursues,
 And keeps a firm, undaunted soul.

Though sternly bent by toil and care,
 The brow hang darkly o'er his eye—
His features the fix'd meaning wear
 Of one who knows not how to sigh.

It is not apathy that reigns,
 O'erweening arrogance or pride,
For, in his warmly-flowing veins,
 The genial feelings all reside.

It is the breast-plate fortitude
 Should still to injury oppose;
It is the shield with power indu'd,
 To blunt the malice of his foes.

And should the savage country round,
 A more engaging aspect show,
O Conway! it will then be found,
 How sweet and clear thy waters flow

The birds will dip the taper wing—
 The pilgrim there his thirst assuage,
The wandering minstrel sit and sing,
 Or muse upon a distant age!

Bold River! soon within the deep,
 Each weary strife and conflict o'er,
Thy venerable waves shall sleep,
 And feel opposing rocks no more!