On the Departure of Sir Walter Scott from Abbotsford, for Naples
On the Departure of Sir Walter Scott from Abbotsford, for Naples
Original Text
Alaric A. Watts, ed., The Cabinet of Modern Art and Literary Souvenir (London: Hurst, 1835). AY 13.C3 SMRS #1829.
2Nor of the setting sun's pathetic light
4Spirits of Power, assembled there, complain
5For kindred Power departing from their sight;
6While Tweed, best pleased in chanting a blithe strain,
7Saddens his voice again, and yet again.
8Lift up your hearts, ye Mourners! for the might
9Of the whole world's good wishes with him goes;
10Blessings and prayers in nobler retinue
11Than sceptred king or laurelled conqueror knows,
12Follow this wondrous Potentate. Be true,
Notes
1] Scott suffered a paralytic stroke in 1831, and on September 23 he left his great country house, Abbotsford, to spend the winter in Italy. On September 19-22, Wordsworth and his daughter were Scott's guests at Abbotsford. This sonnet was written within a day or two of their departure, and first published in The Literary Souvenir for 1835. Back to Line
3] Eildon's triple height: the three Eildon Hills, a striking feature of the landscape near Melrose and Abbotsford. They were associated with legends of Thomas of Erceldoune. Back to Line
13] the midland sea: the Mediterranean. Back to Line
14] Parthenope: classical name for Naples. Back to Line
Publication Start Year
1835
RPO poem Editors
J. R. MacGillivray
RPO Edition
3RP 2.400.
Rhyme
Form