When Edward bade his conquering bands advance,

Or Henry trampled on the crest of France;

Though marvelling at the name of Magna Charta,

Yet, well he recollects the laws of Sparta.

Can tell what edicts sage Lycurgus made,

Whilst Blackstone's on the shelf neglected laid;

Of Grecian dramas vaunts the deathless fame,

Of Avon's bard, remembering scarce the name.

Such is the youth, whose scientific pate,

Class honours, medals, fellowships await;

Or even perhaps the declamation prize,

If to such glorious height, he lifts his eyes.

But lo! no common orator can hope

The envied silver cup within his scope;

Not that our heads much eloquence require,

The ATHENIAN's glowing style, or TULLY's fire.

The manner of the speech is nothing, since

We do not try by speaking to convince;

Be other orators of pleasing proud,

We speak to please ourselves, not move the crowd.

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