THE TASK. BOOK III. THE GARDEN. Self-recollection and reproof.-Address to domestic happiness.-Some account of myself.-The vanity of many of their pursuits who are reputed wise.-Justification of my censures.-Divine illumination necessary to the most expert philosopher.-The question, What is truth? answered by other questions.-Domestic happiness addressed again.-Few lovers of the country.-My tame hare.-Occupations of a retired gentleman in his garden.-Pruning.-Framing.-Greenhouse.-Sowing of flower seeds.-The country preferable to the town even in the winter.-Reasons why it is deserted at that season-Ruinous effects of gaming and of expensive improvement.-Book concludes with an apostrophe to the metropolis. As one who long in thickets and in brakes If chance at length he find a greensward smooth He cherups brisk his ear-erecting steed, And winds his way with pleasure and with ease; To' adorn the Sofa with eulogium due, Since pulpits fail, and sounding boards reflect Feeds a blue flame, and makes a cheerful hearth; Is ofttimes proof of wisdom, when the fault Domestic happiness, thou only bliss In all our crowded streets; and senates seem Than to release the' adultress from her bond. |