John Dryden

Then, in the train, the mightier DRYDEN shines,
A Genius form'd for more superb designs.

Of the productions of Dryden, the most admired are the "Hind and Panther;" "Absalom and Achitophel;" the "Annus Mirabilis;" the "Ode on Mrs. Killigrew," which Dr. Johnson calls the noblest that our language ever produced; but, perhaps the "Ode on St. Cecilia's Day" may be considered his master-piece. As it exhibits ardent flights of fancy, and great nicety of lyric versification; evinces comprehensiveness of mind, and extent of classic acquirements, it may be quoted as the fairest specimen of the style and powers of Dryden; and as such will constitute and embrace every thing required by the object of these notes.