Charlotte Smith - The Sea View lyrics

The upland shepherd, as reclined he lies On the soft turf that clothes the mountain brow, Marks the bright sea-line mingling with the skies; Or from his course celestial sinking low The summer sun in purple radiance glow Blaze on the western waters; the wide scene Magnificent and tranquil seems to spread Even over the rustic's breast a joy serene, When, like dark plague-spots by the demons shed, Charged deep with d**h, upon the waves far seen Move the war-freighted ships; and fierce and red Flash their destructive fires--The mangled dead And dying victims then pollute the flood. Ah! thus man spoils glorious works with blood!