NOTE.--Dryden wrote this song in 1687 for the festival of St. Cecilia,
the patron saint of music. To be appreciated it must be read aloud,
for it is full of musical effects, especially stanzas 3-6. St. Cecilia
has been represented by Raphael and other artists as playing upon some
instrument, surrounded by listening angels.
[1.] From harmony, etc. Some of the ancients believed that music
helped in the creation of the heavenly bodies, and that their motions
were accompanied by a harmony known as "the music of the spheres."
[2.] This universal frame, the visible universe.
[3.] The diapason, etc. _The diapason_ means here _the entire compass
of tones_. The idea is that in man, the highest of God's creatures,
are included all the virtues and powers of the lower creation.
[4.] Jubal. It is said of Jubal: "He was the father of all such as
handle the harp and organ."--Genesis iv, 21.
[5.] The corded shell, _i.e._ the lyre. The first lyre was supposed to
have been formed by drawing strings over a tortoise shell.
[6.] Mortal alarms, _i.e._ notes that rouse men to deadly conflict.
[7.] Discovers, reveals.
[8.] Mend, amend, improve.
[9.] Orpheus is said to have been a Thracian poet who moved rocks and
trees and tamed wild beasts by playing upon his lyre.
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