And shook the Pyramids with fear and wonder,
When the gigantic Memnon fell asunder?
If the tomb’s secrets may not be confessed,
The nature of thy private life unfold:
A heart has throbbed beneath that leathern breast,
And tears adown that dusty cheek have rolled.
Have children climbed those knees, and kissed that face?
What was thy name and station, age and race?
Statue of flesh—Immortal of the dead!
Imperishable type of evanescence!