The Poetry Corner

Written In The Album Of The Lady Of Dr. George Birkbeck, M.D.

By Thomas Gent

Lady unknown! a pilgrim from the shrine Of Poesy's fair temple, brings a wreath Which fame and gratitude alike entwine, Around a name that charms the monster Death, And bids him pause!--Amidst despairing life BIRKBECK's the harbinger of hope and health; When sordid affluence was with man at strife, He boldly stripp'd the veil, and show'd the wealth To aged ignorance, and ardent youth, Of cultured minds--the freedom of the soul! The sun of science, and the light of truth, The bliss of reason--mind without control. Accept this tribute. Lady! and the praise, As Consort and the soother of his care! His offspring's pride--his friend's commingled rays, And every other grace that man has deem'd most rare!