Dickens

Algernon Charles Swinburne (1837–1909)

CHIEF in thy generation born of men

Whom English praise acclaimed as English born,

With eyes that matched the world-wide eyes of morn

For gleam of tears or laughter, tenderest then

When thoughts of children warmed their light, or when

Reverence of age with love and labor worn,

Or godlike pity fired with godlike scorn,

Shot through them flame that winged thy swift live pen:

Where stars and suns that we beheld not burn,

Higher even than here, though highest was here thy place,

Love sees thy spirit laugh and speak and shine

With Shakespeare, and the soft bright soul of Sterne,

And Fielding’s kindliest might, and Goldsmith’s grace;

Scarce one more loved or worthier than thine.