The Last Supper, by Leonardo da Vinci, in the Refectory of the Convent of Maria della Grazia—Milan -

Tho' searching damps and many an envious flaw Have marred this Work, the calm ethereal grace, The love deep-seated in the Saviour's face, The mercy, goodness, have not failed to awe The Elements; as they do melt and thaw The heart of the Beholder- and erase (At least for one rapt moment) every trace Of disobedience to the primal law. The annunciation of the dreadful truth Made to the Twelve, survives: lips, forehead, cheek, And hand reposing on the board in ruth Of what it utters, while the unguilty seek Unquestionable meanings, still bespeak A labour worthy of eternal youth!