ODES. FRAGMENT. TO REYNOLDS, MAY, 1818. "It is impossible to know how far knowledge will console us for the death of a friend and the 'ill that flesh is heir to.' With respect to the affections and poetry, you must know by a sympathy my thoughts that way, and I dare say these few lines will be but a ratification. I wrote them on May-day, and intend to finish the ode all in good time." " OTHER of Hermes! and still youthful Maia! As thou wast hymned on the shores of Baiæ ? In earlier Sicilian? or thy smiles Seek as they once were sought, in Grecian isles, Rounded by thee, my song should die away Rich in the simple worship of a day.' It is much to be regretted he did not finish this ode; this commencement is in his best manner: the sentiment VOL. III. 1 and expression perfect, as every traveller in modern Greece will recognize.-ED. |