Robert Southey

Lansdown Hill

WITH many a weary step at length I gain
Thy summit, Lansdown; and the cool breeze plays
Gratefully round my brow, as hence I gaze
Back on the fair expanse of yonder plain.
’T was a long way, and tedious; to the eye
Though fair the extended vale, and fair to view
The autumnal leaves of many a faded hue,
That eddy in the wild gust moaning by.
Even so it fared with life: in discontent,
Restless through fortune’s mingled scenes I went,
Yet wept to think they would return no more.
But cease, fond heart! in such sad thoughts to roam;
For surely thou erelong shalt reach thy home,
And pleasant is the way that lies before.