  I. Because Song’s brightest stars have crowned his head, And to his soul their loveliest dreams unfurled, Because since Shakespeare joined the deathless dead, No loftier Poet has entranced the world. II. Because Olympian food, ethereal wine, Are his who fills Apollo’s golden lute. Why should he not from his high heaven incline, To take from lowlier hands their proffered food? III. Free is the earnest offering! he as free To condescend toward the gift they bring; No Dead-Sea apple is a lord’s degree, To foul the lips of him, our Poet-King. —London Home Chimes. |
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