and breathe and have their being in many books of priceless value. Were Homer materially present in the world, but few could enjoy his society. I could not hope to entertain by my fireside one upon whose companionship the entire literary world would make such great demands. But all that would make the Greek poet so enthusiastically sought were he dwelling now in any of our cities, he has left with us in those marvelous poems that all men may read. The glorious genius that exalted Homer and Shakespeare above other men may find a ready place by my fireside. I know those two immortal poets far better than the people of their own times knew them. My firelight may fall brightly upon the upturned face of the "thousand-souled " poet of old England, as fell the light of long age upon his noble features. Whatever is best in ages and lands is mine, and over them all I write with grateful heart, "Mash Allah"- the Gift of God. |