IN MEMORIAM.

Westport Times, Volume IV, Issue 690, 28 July 1870, Page 3

IN MEMORIAM.

CHARLES DICKENS, DIED 9TH JUNE, 1870. The pen has fallen from the Author's hand, The noble heart that guided it is cold; The fearless soul has fled that took its stand For Eight, and in that cause was ever bold. Eight! 'Twas his battle cry, and through long years He waged with Vice a stern, determined war; In this great cause he knew no idle fears ; His sword unsheathed, strict Justice was his law. 'Twas not against the lowly that he fought— Sunk deep in misery, and steeped in sin— But 'gainst those great ones of the earth, who 6ought To show that all mankind were not akin. Those who have read his works, from youth to age, And wondered at the greatness of hi 3 mind, Have seen his heart laid bare upon the page; That heart so staunch, so noble, and so kind! His words have oft, in cot and princely hall, Drawn merry laughter from both young and old; And oft they've caused the burning tears to fall At some sad story of affliction told. "We looked upon him as a faithful friend— A type of what an Englishman should be— Our love increased with each new work he penned; We liked his nature, true, and brave, and free! And new the ink is dry upon his pen, Wo lay him down with sorrow in the grave, We clasp that hand in friendship, once again, Oft raised to punish, oft outstretched to save. He's left this world of torture, woe, and pain; Around the grave ye weeping mourners kneel: His mighty works, the children of his brain, Will live whilst Englishmen have hearts to feel. B. A. A. Shortland, July 12,1870,