Poetical Works of Johnson, Parnell, Gray, and Smollett · Chapter 27Parody of a Translation
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1 Err shall they not, who resolute explore Time's gloomy backward with judicious eyes; And, scanning right the practices of yore, Shall deem our hoar progenitors unwise.
2 They to the dome where smoke with curling play Announced the dinner to the regions round, Summon'd the singer blithe, and harper gay, And aided wine with dulcet-streaming sound.
3 The better use of notes, or sweet or shrill, By quivering string or modulated wind, Trumpet or lyre—to their harsh bosoms chill, Admission ne'er had sought, or could not find.
4 Oh! send them to the sullen mansions dun, Her baleful eyes where Sorrow rolls around; Where gloom-enamour'd Mischief loves to dwell, And Murder, all blood-bolter'd, schemes the wound.
5 When cates luxuriant pile the spacious dish, And purple nectar glads the festive hour; The guest, without a want, without a wish, Can yield no room to music's soothing power.
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