'The Task' (extract) (poem) written by William Cowper

I was a stricken deer, that left the herd

Long since; with many an arrow deep infixt 

My panting side was charged, when I withdrew 

To seek a tranquil death in distant shades.

There I was found by one who had himself 

Been hurt by th'archers. In his side he bor,

And in his hands and feet, the cruel scars.

With gentle force soliciting the darts,

He drew them forth, and healed, and bade me live.

Since then, with few associates, in remote

And silent woods I wander, fat from those

My former partners of the peopled scene;

With few associates, and not wishing more.

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