stimulated the patriot's zeal, the scholar's enthusiasm, and brightened the Christian's hopes.

The poetry of a people has in all ages marked their degree of civilization and refinement; and it has been truthfully said, he who writes the songs of a nation wields a controlling influence over its destiny. It is the language in which the heart's deepest, tenderest emotions are expressed, and by which its inmost fountains are stirred.

In giving expression to these crude thoughts, I have hoped to show, somewhat, the importance of cultivating in the minds of the young a taste for the study of high-toned, genuine poetry for its elevating and refining influence. If I have succeeded in the smallest degree, I shall feel amply paid for the labor and thought I have expended.