by J.P. Tn—s.
Originally published in The Literary Chronicle and Weekly Review (J. Sidebetmem) vol.1 #9 (17 Jul 1819).
Written Extempore, on seeing Miss Copeland perform the Part of Madge Wildfire, in the 'Heart of Mid Lothian,' at the Surrey Theatre,, July 1st, 1819.
Brightest star in nature's sky,
Defying even rivalry;
Say, lovely maid, by what unerring rule,
Thou caught'st the spark of nature true?
In vain the lustrous gaze of fashion,
And echoing shouts would fain persuade
A mere theatric scene I view:
I fancy the sweet picture true!
As the pale moon lights up her sphere
Of modest glory in the sky,
So chaste conception fires thy mind,
Like lightnings flash of purest kind,
Which awes the soul with tremor dread,
'Till ev'ry joyous hope has fled;
But when the gloom is chas'd away,
How does sweet joy our cares repay!
Soft mirror of reflecting truth,
In thee the choicest gifts reside;
Amazement's stare, and wonder's glance,
And madd'ning joys and horror's prance,
In thee display the wond'rous power,
Of female skill and study's hour!