CLXXVII + 

Prologus in Phormionem + 

What Attic Terence wrote of old for Rome, + 

We in our northern accents lisp to-night; + 

What heathen Terence spoke to heathen ears, + 

We speak with Christian tongues to Christian men: + 

Doing the while this service to the Bard, + 

That the rare beauty of his classic wit + 

We by our pruning make more beautiful. + 

O happy art, which Terence never knew, + 

But they have learned, who aim in every thing + 

To choose the good, and pass the evil by! + 

These, as they pace the tangled path of life, + 

Cleanse from this earth its earthly dross away, + 

And clothe it with a pure supernal light. + 

Neighbours and friends, what I have more to say⁠— + 

It is not much⁠—concerns our actors here, + 

Fresh tender souls, and palpitating hearts, + 

Boys, who, though boys, essay the parts of men, + 

And are the first within this Catholic fold + 

To represent a classic comedy. + 

Be kind⁠—they strive with no inglorious aim; + 

Where they do well, applaud; and, if in aught + 

They shall come short, be mild and merciful. + 

Prologue enough; let Davus enter now, + 

And lend his ear, while Geta tells his tale. + 