Yet how many men of genius have panegyrised and imitated them! The style of Dante is, if not his highest, perhaps his most peculiar excellence.

I know nothing with which it can be compared.

The noblest models of Greek composition must yield to it.

His words are the fewest and the best which it is possible to use.

The first expression in which he clothes his thoughts is always so energetic and comprehensive that amplification would only injure the effect.