Star of the Lyre! a spirit like to thee,

White-burning, close to the high heart of heaven,

We knew; a spirit as clear, with ardors pure

Trembling to every touch of the divine

Serene sphere-music. Such was he, our friend,

Our singer; such is he, though mortal sense

Be sealed.

Now to his name I give this book,

Reverent, as placing on an altar-stone

A gift; though slight, not all unmeet—since he