Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, TO JAMES SMITH, by ALEXANDER G. MURDOCH


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

TO JAMES SMITH, by                    
First Line: O rare ben jonson!' cried an early wit
Last Line: -- alex. G. Murdoch.
Subject(s): Friendship


"O rare Ben Jonson!" cried an early wit,
In eulogy of him who sat and heard
The voice of Shakspeare, and with him conferr'd,
Permitted in his presence oft to sit;
And if, dear friend, at loss fit words to snatch,
I cry, glad-voiced -- "O rarest Jamie Smith!"
That of itself would be meet praise wherewith
Thy worth and happy genius both to match.
The favourite thou of all the fabled Nine,
Striking at will sweet-toned or saddening chords,
Or calling up in rumble-tumble line
Fun's farcic group upon the roaring boards;
Whilst unto thee the higher praise is due --
Thou brave-soul'd bard, to life and duty true!
-- Alex. G. Murdoch.





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