Then may I wait, dear Alcott, of thy court,

Or bear a mace in thy Platonic reign!

Though sweet Philosophy be not my forte,

Nor Mincio’s reed, nor Learning’s weary gain.

ODE TO ALCOTT[[13]]

BY JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL

Hear him but speak, and you will feel

The shadows of the Portico

Over your tranquil spirit steal,

To modulate all joy and woe