Though his aspect was unnerving, I began to speak of Irving—
For I’ doubted not that he had seen of Macbeths many a score—
And I blandly then suggested a Shakespearian treat in store,
When he answered, “Nevermore.”
Much I marvelled this ungainly swell to hear discourse so plainly
In the midst of Irving advocates, who voted him a bore—
In an audience all agreeing that no living being
Ever yet was blest with seeing acting such as that in store,
Quoting Hamlet, Richelieu, and The Bells, and many pieces more,
For the laurels Irving wore.