Local Recollection on the Heights Near Hockheim

Abruptly paused the Strife;—the field throughout
Resting upon his arms each Warrior stood,
Checked in the very act and deed of blood,
With breath suspended—like a listening Scout.
O Silence! thou wert Mother of a shout
That thro’ the texture of yon azure dome
Clove its glad way—a cry of harvest home
Uttered to Heaven in ecstasy devout!
The barrier Rhine hath flashed, thro’ battle-smoke,
On men who gazed heart-smitten by the view,
As if all Germany had felt the shock.
Fly, wretched Gauls! ere they the charge renew
Who have seen (themselves delivered from the yoke)
The unconquerable Stream his course pursue.