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I - Composed by the Sea-Side near Calais

SONNETS
DEDICATED _TO LIBERTY_.
   August, 1802.
  Fair Star of Evening, Splendor of the West,
  Star of my Country! on the horizon's brink
  Thou hangest, stooping, as might seem, to sink
  On England's bosom; yet well pleas'd to rest,
  Meanwhile, and be to her a glorious crest
  Conspicuous to the Nations. Thou, I think,
  Should'st be my Country's emblem; and should'st wink,
  Bright Star! with laughter on her banners, drest
  In thy fresh beauty. There! that dusky spot
  Beneath thee, it is England; there it lies.
  Blessings be on you both! one hope, one lot,
  One life, one glory! I, with many a fear
  For my dear Country, many heartfelt sighs,
  Among Men who do not love her linger here.

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