that carry it nearly as close to heaven's gate as any of Shakespeare's
lark-like interludes. The brevity of the poems and their uniform
smoothness sometimes produce the effect of monotony. The crowded
richness of the line advises a desultory reading. But one must go back
to them again and again. They bewitch the memory, having once caught
it, and insist on saying themselves over and over. Among the poets of
England the author of the “Hesperides” remains, and is likely to remain,
unique. As Shakespeare stands alone in his vast domain, so Herrick
stands alone in his scanty plot of ground.
“Shine, Poet! in thy place, and be content.”