Fragment LXXII: A speechless messenger, the beacon’s light

A speechless messenger, the beacon’s light,
Announces danger from the mountain’s height!
Bridle your horses, and prepare to fly ;
The final erisis of our fate is nigh.
A momentary pause, a narrow space,
Detains them; but the foes approach apace !
—We must abide what fortune has decreed,
And hope that heaven will help us at our need.
Make your resolve! at home your means are great ;
Abroad you will retain a poor estate.
Unrostentatious, indigent, and scant,
Yet live secure, at least from utter want.