born, a.d. 1758. died, a.d. 1793.

ANOTHER accomplished scion of the illustrious house of Cork and Orrery, Henrietta Boyle was the only daughter of Charles, Viscount Dungarvan, eldest son of John, Earl of Cork. Descended from a line of noble authors—her uncle Charles Boyle, Earl of Orrery, was the famous opponent of Dr. Bentley in the Boyle and Bentley controversy—who had distinguished themselves in various walks of literature, this lady was the first of her name who wooed the Muse.

At the age of nineteen Henrietta Boyle was married to John O'Neil, Esq., of Shane's Castle, in the County Antrim. The details of her life are but meagre; and she is chiefly remembered socially as being the friend of the novelist and poetess, Mrs. Charlotte Smith. This lady dedicated some of her sonnets to Lady O'Neil, and also wrote some verses upon her death. Of Lady O'Neil's poems, the following specimen will give a good idea of the finish and poetical feeling which, distinguished everything that emanated from her graceful pen:—

ODE TO THE POPPY.