PLACES OF WORSHIP

As star that shines dependent upon star

Is to the sky while we look up in love;

As to the deep fair ships which though they move

Seem fixed, to eyes that watch them from afar;

As to the sandy desert fountains are,

With palm-groves shaded at wide intervals,

Whose fruit around the sun-burnt Native falls

Of roving tired or desultory war —

Such to this British Isle her christian Fanes,

Each linked to each for kindred services;

Her Spires, her Steeple-towers with glittering vanes

Far-kenned, her Chapels lurking among trees,

Where a few villagers on bended knees

Find solace which a busy world disdains.