The Ringers of Lancell's Tower

They meet once more ! that ancient band,
With furrow'd cheek and failing hand ;
One peal to-day they fain would ring,
The jubilee of England's king !

They meet once more ! but where are now
The sinewy arm, the laughing brow,
The strength that hailed, in happier times,
King George the Third with lusty chimes ?

Yet proudly gaze on that lone tower,
No goodlier sight hath hall or bower ;
Meekly they strive — and closing day
Gilds with soft light their locks of grey.

Hark ! proudly hark ! with that true tone
They welcomed him to land and throne ;
So ere they die they fain would ring
The jubilee of England's king.

Hearts of old Cornwall, fare ye well !
Fast fade such scenes from field and dell ;
How wilt thou lack, my own dear land,
Those trusty arms, that faithful band !