The greatest statesman France has ever known
Waked from the grave and wove his subtle spells;
A power behind, but greater than, the throne.
Is Richelieu gone? It seems but yesterday
We heard his voice and watched his features’ play.
Greatest of all in high creative skill
Was Lear, poor discrowned king and hapless sire.
What varied music in the actor’s voice!
The sigh of grief, the trumpet-tone of ire.
Now both are hushed; we ne’er shall hear that strain