And left me darkling and despairing; then

By happy chance there came within my ken

A hapless poet, whom—I thank kind fate!—

It was my privilege to help instate

In that proud eminence wherein he shines

Now that no more on earth he sadly pines.

This was a fortune such as I must ever

Be thankful for—yet still 'twas my endeavour,

With what, I hope, was no unworthy zeal,

My life-work with some other deed to seal,