Classic Poem

There crack'd the cordage of a noble heart!
A heart, which living glow'd with Shakespeare's fire,
Whose native energy, beyond all art,
Could with those dulcet lays the soul inspire;
Could thro' each mazy magic path pursue
The loftiest theme of Nature's Bard divine;
Could, with a master's hand, unfold the clue,
And each rich gem with wond'rous care refine.
Bear witness ye, whose kindling bosoms felt
The potent sway, the glow of genial fire,
When, by an unison of souls, were dealt,
From G ARRICK 's lips, the strains of Shakespeare's lyre;
Bear witness ye, who knew how lov'd the man,
Whose social virtues deck'd the actor's name,
Whose worth intrinsic grac'd his little span,
And gave him more than double right to fame.