XXVI.

And now the hoary sage arose, and saw The wanderer approaching: innocence Smil'd on his glowing cheek, but modest awe Depress'd his eye, that fear'd to give offence. "Who art thou, courteous stranger? and from whence? Why roam thy steps to this sequester'd dale?" "A shepherd-boy," the youth replied, "far hence My habitation; hear my artless tale; Nor levity nor falsehood shall thine ear assail.