CHAPTER VII.--THE FALL OF IMPERIAL ROME.

Thou beheldst the Cæsars in their sceptred power Dominate the known world; but their kingly dower Was vast Imperial Rome--the Romans’ love and pride; Her chivalric people were honored far and wide.

Where now is the Forum where Cicero thundered? And the enrapt throng that listened and wondered? Death-stilled! But though insatiate time doth sever, Cicero’s fame shall live, and live forever. Where now is the grandeur of the Appian Way, And the proud Roman legions in their grand array, As home they march with banners proud unfurled-- The stern, invincible conquerors of the world? The barbarians of the north upon their grandeur rolled, But the relics remain of those “brave days of old.”

Thou hast looked upon Rome in all her glory-- Grand Imperial Rome, that lives now but in story; Thou hast seen her rise resplendent as the day, And droop, and fall to ruin, moulder and decay. Now by the yellow Tiber, flowing on its way, Is but the mere mockery of a grander day.