14 



opinion of Coleridge, that Milton has come nearer to 

 the true conception, than any other writer. " Simple, 

 sensuous, impassioned." Coleridge's own definition is 

 not without merit : " The most proper words in the 

 most proper place." Ruskin has written with his 

 usual brilliancy ; and so has Christopher North in 

 the Noctes Ambrosianse. They substantially concur 

 with Milton. Judged by this test, and no other is 

 a fair criterion of excellence; the Catena is a gem, 

 richly set in a frame-work of gold. It is simple, 

 sensuous, impassioned. Perhaps of these three ele- 

 ments, Professor Alexander was more deficient in the 

 last. At least it was less strikingly developed in his 

 mental organization. He lacks fire, the enthusiasm 

 of inspiration, the fiery frenzy, of which Shakespeare 

 speaks. 



Dr. Alexander's poetry is peculiar, of a genus alto- 

 gether unique, as distinctly marked, as was his genius. 

 It is original in the modes of expression and illustra- 

 tions. Its chief excellence consists in rich imagery, 

 felicitous language, pure taste, and moral elevation. 

 It has more light than heat, though it is not wanting 

 in warmth. The Church Journal, which is one of our 

 most intellectual and discriminating periodicals, writ- 

 ing of this volume, years ago, says, that each piece is 

 possessed of rare jewels, but complains that there is 

 evidence of haste and carelessness. I am satisfied, 

 that what is imputed to haste or carelessness is attrib- 

 utable to Dr. Alexander's peculiarity of thought, and 

 modes of expression. Careless he never was. Faulty 

 at times he may have been, but not careless. I am 

 of the opinion that if he had, like the troubadours of 

 old, recited his poems, they would have been more 

 popular; for his style suited exactly his vocal pow- 

 ITS. He neither talked nor wrote like other men. 



