consumed a large portion of the ancient part of the castle, and
several of the pictures. Among them was Sir Joshua Reynolds's
_Nativity_, a composition of thirteen figures, and in dimensions 12
feet by 18. This noble picture was purchased by the late Duke of
Rutland for 1,200 guineas.

* * * * *


THE PAINTER'S LAST PASSION.


A hectic hue is on my feverish cheek,
And slowly throbs my pulse--but it will cease;
And cease, too, will the visions instinct,
Impalpable, and deep, that haunt my soul!
Death, who can dash the chalice from the lips
Of Pleasure's votary, and hush the lyre
While poetry is breathing on its strings;
Death, who can quench the spirit which portrays
Beauty's resemblance on the marble urn,
Will steep my feelings in oblivion's gloom,
Ere wintry winds disperse the sunny leaves
That cluster round the bosom of the rose.
But I have communed with enchanting shapes,
And felt the silver gush of many a song
Amid the air, until my spirit seem'd
Instinct with glorious draughts of paradise!
Mine eyes have scarcely closed their burning lids
For many a night; and I have watch'd the stars