Biographical Sketch.
FORMERLY Mary Elizabeth Aikin, was born at Poughkeepsie, Dutchess County, New York, and educated at Troy, under the care of Mrs. Willard. When quite young, she wrote for the New York periodicals, under the signature of Norna. In 1829, her longest poem —The Rivals of D'Este —was published, with several others, in a volume containing the poetical effusions of her husband, the late James G. Brooks. She possesses many elegant accomplishments, and a thorough acquaintance with the modern languages. Her poetical talent is seldom called into exercise now; but the verses she has written display a lively fancy and refined taste. The "Hebrew melodies" in the volume above named, are sweet and expressive, and gracefully executed.