[…] everywhere between the poplar stems the saw-toothed outline of the western forts cuts the blue sky.

a good/great/bad rap

The sailor rushed to the flag hoist to dip the flag in return.

[T]he state of idolaters is two ways miserable: first, in that which they worship they find no succour; and secondly, at his hands, whom they ought to serve, there is no other thing to be looked for but the effects of most just displeasure, the withdrawing of grace, dereliction in this world, and in the world to come confusion.