[COMMENDATORY VERSES, ETC.]


[TO J. S. KNOWLES, ESQ.
ON HIS TRAGEDY OF VIRGINIUS.]

Twelve years ago I knew thee, Knowles, and then

Esteemed you a perfect specimen

Of those fine spirits warm-soul'd Ireland sends,

To teach us colder English how a friend's

Quick pulse should beat. I knew you brave, and plain,

Strong-sensed, rough-witted, above fear or gain;