"RING DOWN THE CURTAIN."
Reading edition
"Ring down the Curtain" were the last dying words of a young and beautiful American actress, who died of consumption when in the zenith of her popularity.
Ring down the curtain; So ends the play! Night-time is coming; Past is the day. Sang I in sadness Adorned with a smile; Pourtraying gladness And dying the while! How my brow burneth— With fever oppressed: How my heart yearneth For silence and rest. Soothe me to slumber: Why should ye sigh? Ring down the curtain; 'Tis pleasant to die!
Ring down the curtain: Critics depart! The end of your blaming— A wearisome heart: Fame which your praise brought— A Summer-day cloud: Fruit of my toiling— A coffin and shroud! Light though, and fitful, The dreams of my life, My soul like a vessel From ocean of strife Calmly and peaceful To her haven doth fly: Ring down the curtain— 'Tis pleasant to die!