But when the political aspects are so calamitous, that the
sympathies of the man overpower the habits of the poet, a higher than
literary inspiration may succor him. It is a costly proof of
character, that the most renowned scholar of England should take his
reputation in his hand, and should descend into the ring, and he has
added to his love whatever honor his opinions may forfeit. To atone
for this departure from the vows of the scholar and his eternal
duties, to this secular charity, we have at least this gain, that
here is a message which those to whom it was addressed cannot choose
but hear. Though they die, they must listen. It is plain that
whether by hope or by fear, or were it only by delight in this
panorama of brilliant images, all the great classes of English
society must read, even those whose existence it proscribes. Poor
Queen Victoria, -- poor Sir Robert Peel, -- poor Primate and Bishops,
-- poor Dukes and Lords! there is no help in place or pride, or in
looking another way; a grain of wit is more penetrating than the
lightning of the night-storm, which no curtains or shutters will keep
out.
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