III.

But Heaven, I ween, had sent the gallant youth To rescue Innocence in that dread hour, And show transcendent courage, manhood, truth O’er hell-born passion’s momentary power! He seized her hand--at first from him, her tower Of strength in peril, she withdrew in fear; But in his eyes she looked, and when the flower Of generous youth and beauty stood so near, Her awe dissolved--her face was bright ’mid many a tear.