1806 2

1806.2
The Triple Loss
“Hafiz”
[Thomas Stott]
The Gentleman's Magazine, LXXVI (February 1806), p. 160

In the short space of half a circling year,
Britain has felt three losses most severe,
NELSON, her hero on the boundless main,
The constant scourge and dread of France and Spain;
CORNWALLIS,[1] India's fav'rite—Ireland's friend,
Wise to conciliate, valiant to defend;
And PITT,[2] the dauntless pilot of the State,
By birth, in talents, eminently great:
These have, alas! now pass'd that awful bourn
Whence Fate's decree for ever bars return!
But let not Britain, though thus doom'd to bear
Such ponderous misfortunes, yet despair.
Warriors and statesmen still for her shall rise,
Like those whose noble souls have sought the skies;
With generous strife each loyal breast shall glow
To recompense her losses—soothe her woe.
Around the Constitution all shall cling,
Warm in attachment to their virtuous King;
Firm in their resolution to oppose,
With heart and hands united, Britain's foes.