A poet who is, as has often been said, less a poet than a historian, should to a certain degree conform to the laws of history.

The manner in which he represents the two parties is not to be reconciled with the laws even of fiction.

The senators are demigods; Pompey, a pure lover of his country; Cato, the abstract idea of virtue; while Caesar, the finest gentleman, the most humane conqueror, and the most popular politician that Rome ever produced, is a bloodthirsty ogre.

If Lucan had lived, he would probably have improved greatly." "Again, December 9, 1836,"] I am glad that you have so much business, and sorry that you have so little leisure.

In a few years you will be a Baron of the Exchequer; and then we shall have ample time to talk over our favourite classics.