JOSEF HOFMANN.
Reading edition
(After hearing him play at Boston Music Hall in 1888.)
O marvellous child, a temple where in ease Expectant Genius dwells, while lingering here On earth to fit us for the heavenly sphere, Dost feel awe-struck to know thou hast the keys To new and wondrous unheard harmonies? O favored boy, marked out to be the peer Of those who in all ages God's voice hear, Hushed are our souls before what thy soul sees! Guard tenderly, O earth, O sky, O fates, This precious earthly temple of Art's shrine! May chilling poverty, or sin that dates Soul loss, ne'er hinder Genius' wise design To have full sway—as she anticipates— In working out, in time, her laws divine.