To the fellow’s mischievous harangue, before

She resolved what to do; then she stepped to the door

Of an Astor Place car, and beckoned to him,

And he followed at once, while his audience scattered;

To tell the truth, he felt quite flattered,

And he smiled a smile most heavy and grim,

For he thought he’d awakened a tender passion

In the heart of a belle, a lady of fashion.

And they sat side by side, this curious pair,

While they rode up to Eighth street—and she paid the fare.

They stepped from the car, and stood before,

The “Cooper Institute’s” new-painted door—

“Who hath done this?” asked Charity then;

“Who hath done this for his fellow-men?

Hath builded this house, that all may come—

The poor most welcome—to Learning’s treasure,

And drink their fill without stint or measure?

Who hath so nobly used his thrift,

And bestowed on the world this priceless gift,

Free to all, whoever may come?

 Prev. P 10/19 next