Chapter II

The Avon is a famous rivulet,
The mountain Duddon and the “bonnie Doon”
Flow ever-shining in the sun of song,
While plaintive Yarrow moaneth evermore.
But there is one which I must halo yet
With verse, as with a gleam of morning glory;
Must set its woodland murmurings to tune,
As through summer groves it steals along;
Must gather inspiration from its love
Of visible beauty and traditions hoary,
And spiritual presences sublime.
Dear Luggie! thou are mine by right of birth,
And daily brotherhood and poet’s rhyme.
O could I make thee famous o’er the earth!