"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!