Page:Memoirs of Margaret Fuller Ossoli (IA memoirsofmargare01fullrich).pdf/186

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184
GROTON AND PROVIDENCE.

not majestic, forehead; his brows are lowering and, whew knit in indignant denunciation, give a thunderous look to the countenance, and beneath them flash, sparkle, and flame, — for all that may be said of light in rapid motion is true of them, — his dark eyes. Hazel and blue eyes with their purity, steadfastness, subtle penetration and radiant hope, may persuade and win, but black is the color to command. His mouth has an equivocal expression, but as an orator perhaps he gains power by the air of mystery this gives.

‘He has a very active intellect, sagacity and elevated sentiment; and, feeling strongly that God is love, can never preach without earnestness. His power comes first from his glowing vitality of temperament. While speaking, his every muscle is in action, and all his action is towards one object. There is perfect abandon. He is permeated, overborne, by his thought. This ends a charm above grace, though incessant nervousness and heat injure his manner. He is never violent, though often vehement; pleading tones in his voice redeem him from coarseness, ever when most eager; and he throws himself into the hearts of his hearers, not in weak need of sympathy, but in the confidence of generous emotion. His second attraction is his individuality. He speaks direct from the conviction of his spirit, without temporizing, or artificial method. His is the “unpremeditated art,” and therefore successful. He is full of intellectual life; his mind has not been fettered by dogmas, and the worship of beauty finds a place there. I am much interested in this truly animated being.’


‘Mr. R. H. Dana has been giving us readings in the