Enigma VIII

TOUCH at the island of Ceylon,
And northward seek a spot of ground,
Where roving fragrant woods among,
Large docile elephants are found.

In Denmark view a castle fair,
Built long ago for Science' sake,
That Tycho Brahe, the sage, might there
Celestial observations make.

Next, turn where eastward morning breaks,
And that proud Syrian city name,
Which, great in ruins, loudly speaks
Its pristine splendour, pow'r, and fame.

Then, quitting this vast sandy plain,
Which, lies beneath Destruction's frown,
Land on that isle, which Henry's reign
Annexed to the fair British crown.

But rest not here, your sails unfurl'd
Must seek the Asiatic shore:
And mourn that spot which Greece besieg'd
For ten long years--now known no more.

Then back to southern Europe steer,
Cast anchor on the Spanish coast,
And if you regal pomp revere,
Visit this nation's pride and boast.

Your voyage ended, homeward hie,
But, ere you rest from all your toil,
Pause, where the Tree of Liberty
Was planted on the British soil.

Then, seated round the festive board,
Your track, while memory recites,
Show, by the places you've explor'd,
An orb with four bright satellites.