That son of Italy who tried to blow, br Ere Dante came, the trump of sacred song, br In his light youth amid a festal throng br Sate with his bride to see a public show. br br Fair was the bride, and on her front did glow br Youth like a star; and what to youth belong-- br Gay raiment, sparkling gauds, elation strong. br A prop gave way! crash fell a platform! lo, br br 'Mid struggling sufferers, hurt to death, she lay! br Shuddering, they drew her garments off--and found br A robe of sackcloth next the smooth, white skin. br br Such, poets, is your bride, the Muse! young, gay, br Radiant, adorn'd outside; a hidden ground br Of thought and of austerity within.