And truth severe, by fairy fiction drest.
Far from the madding crowd's ignoble strife Their sober wishes never learn'd to stray; Along the cool sequester'd vale of life They kept the noiseless tenor of their way.
A fav'rite has no friend!
To brisk notes in cadence beating, glance their many-twinkling feet.
Can honor's voice provoke the silent dust, or flattery soothe the dull, cold ear of death?
Far from the madding crowd's ignoble strife.