University of Virginia Library

This is a Dramatic Ode. The subject relating to different countries, allusions, as in a former ode, are made to different mythologies. The Muse, the Queen or Goddess of Poetry, is introduced, asserting her ancient character, as seen in the exciting of benevolent and social affections. The reflections, which thence arise, confirm this appeal, and superadd, that poetry is qualified to produce similar effects, even in modern times. In confirmation of these ideas, the Queen of Poetry bursts out in an address to Benevolence or Love, as being worthy, in every age of the world, of the highest praise.— Effects, which soon followed, in a Race of Heroes, the offspring of Benevolence, distinguished by their exertions for the public good. At the same time, Avarice and Ambition were born, introducing into society innumerable calamities. Love, immediately perceiving the source of these fatal ills, calls upon her sons, the Race of Heroes, to revive her ancient laws, and to teach mankind the proper use of riches.

A peculiar measure is adopted for the sake of variety, and the boldness of its transitions, which, perhaps, may be called Anti-Pindaric, of which more hereafter.

This poem had in view, originally, the design of the Literary

Fund, a society, which first arose out of the meeting of a few men of Letters for benevolent purposes. It is now distinguished by the attention of the higher circles, and has for its President and Patron, the Prince of Wales.