TRANSLATIONS. FROM THE LATIN OF VINCENT BOURNE. THE GLOW-WORM. 1. BENEATH the hedge, or near the stream, A worm is known to stray; That shows by night a lucid beam, II. Disputes have been, and still prevail, And others to his head. III. But this is sure-the hand of might, IV. Perhaps indulgent nature meant By such a lamp bestowed, To bid the traveller, as he went, Be careful where he trod :' V. Nor crush a worm, whose useful light Might serve, however small, To shew a stumbling stone by night, And save him from a fall. VI. Whate'er she meant, this truth divine Is legible and plain, 'Tis power almighty bids him shine, Nor bids him shine in vain. VII. Ye proud and wealthy, let this theme THE JACKDAW. I. There is a bird who by his coat, Might be supposed a crow; A great frequenter of the church, II. Above the steeple shines a plate, From what point blows the weather, Fond of the speculative height, IV. You think, no doubt, he sits and muses No; not a single thought like that V. He sees that this great roundabout Its customs, and its businesses, And says what says he?-Caw. VI. Thrice happy bird! I too have seen Much of the vanities of men ; And, sick of having seen 'em, Would cheerfully these limbs resign For such a pair of wings as thine, And such a head between 'em. THE CRICKET. I. LITTLE inmate, full of mirth, Such a strain as I can give. II. Thus thy praise shall be exprest, Thou hast all thine heart's desire. III. Though in voice and shape they be IV. Neither night, nor dawn of day, Puts a period to the play: Sing then-and extend thy span Far beyond the date of man. Wretched man, whose years are spent In repining discontent, Lives not, aged though he be, Half a span, compared with thee. |