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 PREFACE. 
 
 Akter the fame which the justly celebrated 
 Doctor Svntax has acquired, it was not to be 
 expected that such a transcendent genius would 
 confine the sphere of his observations and of his 
 future movements to the remote scenes that sur- 
 round his vicarage at Somerden in the vicinity of 
 the Lakes. To have restricted that expansive 
 mind to the contemplation of so barren a field, 
 though the water-drinking bards of the Lakes 
 have denominated it their poetical Elysium — 
 would have been to have locked up a precious 
 jewel in a casket, and to have excited the just 
 regrets of all who ardently desired to behold the 
 indefatigable Doctor again bustling in the midst 
 of society, and employing his inimitable pen and 
 pencil in delineating the manners and pursuits of 
 mankind. From a spot, therefore, so little pro- 
 ductive of incident, — where the study of nature 
 was confined to a few specimens in the persons 
 of rhyming minstrels, peasants, country-women, 
 and periodical valetudinarian visitants to the 
 
IV 
 
 borders of the Meres, Doctor Syntax was 
 earnestly solicited to iinmerge into the scenes 
 of the great world, and to exert the energies 
 of his mind in depicting the Pleasures and 
 Miseries of the Metropolis. Among the 
 most powerful incitements to this undertaking 
 which the Doctor experienced, were, it must be 
 confessed, the repeated suggestions of Mrs. Syn- 
 tax, who was herself desirous of figuring for a 
 time amidst the gaieties of the fashionable world. 
 With this desire of his spouse, so natural to the 
 panting bosoms of the country fair, the affection- 
 ate Doctor was induced at length to comply ; 
 and the public are here presented, along with the 
 adventures and observations of the celebrated 
 Syntax, with the additional and pleasing accom- 
 paniment of the presence, and it is to be hoped 
 no less entertaining remarks, of his unsophisti- 
 cated wife. 
 
 It appears that the Doctor had also another 
 motive for visiting the capital, having written a 
 Tragedy, which he was anxious to get represent- 
 ed on the London stage. The reception and 
 success which he experienced as a dramatic 
 author will be found detailed in the poem. 
 
 In conclusion, it is confidently hoped from the 
 favourable opinion that has already been ex- 
 pressed, that this new work of the celebrated 
 Doctor Syntax, will not be found inferior in any 
 respect, either in point of poetical merit, graphic 
 illustration, or beauty of printing, to the former 
 production of that amusing and esteemed author. 
 
LIST OF PLATES. 
 
 Dr. Syntax and his Spouse, to face Vignette 
 
 — Setting off for London - Page 9 
 
 *- Arrival in Town ... 39 
 
 ■- Robbed in St. Giles's - - 59 
 
 ■ Behind the Scenes at the Opera 62 
 
 • At a Masquerade - . - - 90 
 
 — Reading his Play in the Green Room 120 
 
 '- In Hyde Park - - - 127 
 
 — At the Exhibition .- - - 148 
 
 ■— Going to Richmond in the Steam Boat 165 
 
 — At Vauxhall - 186 
 
 — Shoots London Bridge, and pops 
 
 overboard - - - 193 
 
 «- At the London Institution - 207 
 
 At the House of Commons - 232 
 
 ■ — At a Gaming House - - 238 
 
 ■ In St. Paul's Church Yard, rain and 
 
 windy Day ... 250 
 
 — Viewing the Bank - - 253 
 
 • Presented at Court - - - 295 
 
 ■ Witnessing the fate of his Play 318 
 
/ 
 
 axDO?p<»® ©lyiTO&a 
 
 IN 
 
 CANTO I. 
 
 IS there a mind to mirth so dead. 
 That ne'er delighted heard or read, 
 Of Doctor Syntax, learned sage, 
 The pride and glory of the age ; 
 Who bent on honour dar'd explore 
 Scenes that no parson saw before ; 
 With slender purse and labouring brains, 
 And, Heaven knows well, a world of pains, 
 When borne on Grizzle's weary back, 
 He trod of fame the dang'rous tract, 
 O'er fields with no kind verdure spread, 
 Mountains terrific, dark and dread, 
 Where still he found, with playful art, 
 A pathway to the human heart, 
 Developing great nature's plan 
 Superior to the schemes of man ; 
 For art and fashion shrink away — 
 From where Dame Nature's wanton play 
 
2 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Calls beauty from confusion's mass, 
 
 And shows true taste in wisdom's glass, 
 
 For in the country's rugged bowers — 
 
 The bard crops academic flowers ; 
 
 The tow'ring hill and vaulted steep, 
 
 The lakes broad insulated deep ; 
 
 The trembling lines — the bold cascade, 
 
 Loud thund'ring down the solemn glade ; 
 
 The eagle's screams impressing awe 
 
 As o'er the crest of proud Skiddaw 
 
 Wrapt in dark clouds, by tempest driven 
 
 He spreads his wings, and soars to Heav'n- 
 
 From scenes like these old Syntax drew 
 
 A picture — all acknowledg'd new, 
 
 And even some declar'd a good 
 
 Well season'd dish for satire's food, 
 
 With genius wayward, mild and plastic, 
 
 And verse approaching — Hudibrastic. 
 
 He ne'er told plainly, any plain-trick, 
 
 All was original and eccentric : 
 
 All was his own, both high and low 
 
 English he was from top to toe, 
 
 And scorn'd to seek a foreign shore 
 
 Whilst Britain had a rood t'explore ; 
 
 Syntax has now to boast a name 
 
 Upon the rolls of modern fame ; 
 
 His fancy did not flag or tire 
 
 When he return'd to his own fire, 
 
 Escap'd from toils or perils dire. 
 
 Kind Fortune, lovely goddess, came, . 
 
 And gave him wealth, and peace, and fame ; 
 
 In snug retirement and at ease 
 
 Health play'd in zephyrs through the trees 
 
 \ 
 
IN LONDON. 
 
 That fenc'd the happy vicarage 
 Provided for the Christian sage, 
 Where even Mrs. Syntax' tongue 
 Th' alarum peal no longer rung, 
 And whether needfully or not, 
 Good Syntax' ale ran down his throat : 
 'Twas sweet in lovely Somerden, 
 To hear the clerk cry out Amen. 
 
 It was indeed a pleasant spot 
 In which the fates cast Syntax' lot, 
 Amply rewarding all his care, 
 For all that fancy seeks was there. 
 With raptur'd eye whoever scann'd 
 The wide spread lakes of Cumberland ; 
 Whoever threw th' enamour'd glance 
 O'er Keswick's bold and blue expanse, 
 Or rov'd where hermit peace abides 
 Amid the woods that deck it's sides, 
 Will guess the charms that smil'd around 
 This favour'd, this enchanted ground. 
 
 One ev'ning as with matron grace 
 Sweet Mrs. Syntax took her place 
 The fragrant tea-urn's font beside, 
 The Doctor with a traveller's pride, 
 Began in terms of classic lore 
 To run the darling story o'er, 
 As often he had done before, 
 Of his adventurous deeds, when forth 
 He boldly sallied to the North, 
 In quest of fame spurred on, slap dash, 
 To bring back something, to make cash, 
 
4 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 But most he lov'd, and aye would dwell, 
 
 On those adventures which befell 
 
 His Doctorship, when with full glee 
 
 He drank his wine, and sipp'd his tea. 
 
 And from that beverage rose obstropulous 
 
 To beat the rounds of the metropolis. 
 
 Thus on the man of learning ran, 
 
 Even from the day that he began 
 
 The memorable Tour, that Fame 
 
 With smiles has gloried to proclaim ; 
 
 Nor thought that those who heard the tale,, 
 
 Could let delighted fancy fail 
 
 To share in corresponding strains, 
 
 In all his pleasures, all his pains ; 
 
 Or that a wife is prone to claim 
 
 The privilege as well as name 
 
 Of spouse, and be allowed to share 
 
 In all her husband's joys and care. 
 
 And e'en at times the jerkins wear. 
 
 A cloud like that which often lowers 
 
 O'er happiest matrimonial bowers, 
 
 When joy's about to disappear, 
 
 Showing domestic thunder near, 
 
 Began, portentous sign, to grow 
 
 On Mrs. Syntax' darkening brow. 
 
 " My dear," she said, " you still incline, 
 
 " (By other feelings mov'd than mine) 
 
 " In solitary mood to roam, 
 
 " And slight your wife and native home. 
 
 " But if you lov'd me as you ought, 
 
 " And exercis'd attentive thought, 
 
 " And understood your duties clear, 
 
 " And what concerns your honour near, 
 
IN LONDON. 
 
 " You had not left your wife behind, .[ - ! 
 
 " And ventur'd forth like one that's blind, 
 
 " Upon the world to wander wide, 
 
 " Without a faithful friend and guide. 
 
 " If you but priz'd her watchful care, 
 
 " Who still is lovely, kind and fair ; 
 
 " You would not thus neglect your wife, 
 
 " Who ever lov'd you as her life ; 
 
 " And through the world with you would go, 
 
 " Partaker of your joy or woe. 
 
 " And now that we have wealth in store, 
 
 " 'Twere meet for her that you once more 
 
 " The world of fashion should revisit, 
 
 " For how can I that never sees it, 
 
 " With pompous Lady Lawnsleeves vie, 
 
 " In dress and airs and courtesy ? 
 
 " You are, I say, a man of merit, 
 
 " Then show at last a little spirit ; 
 
 " And be genteel, and live, in short, 
 
 " Like people of the better sort." 
 
 The Doctor heard this smart harangue 
 
 With ears that otherwise had rang 
 
 Responsively in every sense 
 
 To Mrs. Syntax' eloquence ; 
 
 And thus he ventured to reply : 
 
 " My dearest love ! you know that I, 
 
 " Since our connubial knot was tied, 
 
 " Ne'er one request of your's denied, 
 
 " And that I've striven by night and day 
 
 " As much, Heaven knows, as in me lay, 
 
 " To prove how dear I love my spouse, 
 
 " And how I love a quiet house ; 
 
 " And to convince you of this fact, 
 
 " I'll tell you, Lovey, how I've rack'd 
 
D DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 " iVly brains to gratify your passion 
 
 " To figure in the world of fashion ; 
 
 " And at the same time add a laurel, 
 
 " To those which make the critics quarrel, 
 
 " Who think your husband's wand'ring ways 
 
 " Will with the laurel, crop the bays, 
 
 " Which Fame, in spite of all their sneers, 
 
 " Will cause to dangle round my ears : 
 
 " Whilst laurels from his wig are seen, 
 
 " Changing his red nose -tint to green. 
 
 " Now be assured, my dearest dear, 
 
 " That greater honour still is near, 
 
 " Mayhap some annual thousand pounds, 
 
 " May add fresh charms to Syntax' grounds : 
 
 " Favoured by power and hope elate, 
 
 " A mitre yet may deck my pate ; 
 
 " And, by the signs I see already 
 
 " Methinks thou'lt be a bishop's lady.' ' 
 
 MRS. SYNTAX. 
 
 A bishop's lady : say'st thou, love, 
 I wish that true thy words may prove ; 
 But what new dreams, as false as vain, 
 Have turn'd so much thy foolish brain ? 
 
 SYNTAX. 
 
 I've wrote, I've wrote, (now seal your lips) 
 A tragedy that shall eclipse, 
 All that in the most brilliant age, 
 Adorn'd the Greek or Roman stage. 
 CEdipus fam'd in Grecian story 
 And Seneca shall sink before me. 
 
IN LONDON. 
 MRS. SYNTAX. 
 
 A play, a murder-telling play, 
 And think you in blank verse to bray, 
 That bishoprics are swept along 
 By stupid melo-drame, or song ; 
 That lauding priestcraft on the stage 
 Will make you high-priest of the age ? 
 You raise my wonder and my pity, — 
 But let us go to London city. 
 
 " Agreed, agreed," the Doctor cried ; 
 " But how, my Dolly, shall we ride ? 
 " You know poor Grizzle's lame and old, 
 " And it would take a little gold, 
 " For us to travel like the great, 
 " And pay as well as sit in state." 
 
 MRS. SYNTAX. 
 
 I'm glad to see your wits are yet 
 Not gone so far, as to forget 
 That folks like us must frugal be, 
 And practice wise economy, 
 It's now not ungenteel to ride 
 In the stage coach, or e'en outside. 
 For me, I care not how I go, 
 If envying neighbours do not know. 
 Indeed it always makes me ail, 
 When by the rump I'm sued entail ; 
 You know, my dear, at distance far, 
 From all those who know what we are, 
 We may keep company with any 
 Provided we can save the penny. ' 
 
8 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Old Grizzle's back, I need not say, 
 
 Contriv'd a double debt to pay, 
 
 Is able yet, and nothing loath, 
 
 To Kendal town to bear us both. 
 
 We'll there take coach ; and thus you'll own 
 
 We'll rattle cheaply up to town. 
 
 " Well plann'd," quoth Syntax : " on my life, 
 " Thou art a wise and prudent wife ; 
 " You hit my fancy to a hair — 
 " Then for your journey straight prepare, 
 " My wig and tragedy are ready, 
 " My note book rul'd, we'll set off speedy, 
 " And if my lovely spouse content is, 
 " By morning we're ' non est inventus ;' 
 " We'll spin along, o'er stones and gravel, 
 " And quick as Johnny Gilpin travel, 
 " And gaily caper to the seat 
 " Of all that's elegant and great." 
 
 Off went the wife with smiling brow, 
 To dust her ancient furbelow, 
 And pack her caps, and stow her linen, 
 Rags which she ne'er committed sin in. 
 She neither scolded maid or man, 
 She was so pleas'd with her own plan. 
 
 The toil of preparation o'er 
 Small time had our fond pair to snore 
 In Morpheus' lap, for soon the ray 
 Of cheerful morn began to play 
 Around the Doctor's drowsy eyes, 
 Waking in haste and with surprize 
 
>A 
 
5 
 
IN LONDON. 
 
 His rib, whose voice in lofty sounds, 
 Instant through all the house resounds ; 
 A mighty stir was now begun 
 'Twas hurry, scurry, all, and run 
 From this and that thing to the other, 
 A rare and most confounding bother, 
 As ever wife on travel bent, 
 For pleasure or for punishment, 
 Delighted in a house to see 
 She lov'd, yet from it lov'd, to flee. 
 
 Old Grizzle was brought to the dooi*, 
 And loaded with a precious store 
 Of comforts, which the prudent lady 
 Sagaciously had always ready. 
 While she of these took special care, 
 The Doctor's thoughts engaged were 
 On things of greater moment stfll. 
 The darling theme on which his quill 
 Dilated had in raptur'd dream, 
 His future hope — his tragic theme, 
 This he deposits near his breast, 
 Where all his dearest wishes rest ; 
 These when the pair had ceas'd to pack, 
 They mounted were on Grizzle's back, 
 Syntax in double dowlas clad, 
 And Madam buckled to the pad. 
 
 Their village friends stood all around 
 Wondering and uttering pray'rs profound, 
 The parish clerk cried out Amen, 
 Whilst both cried, farewell Somerden. 
 
10 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 O hope is sweet, I oft have sung, 
 For smiling hope is ever young, 
 In youth, in age, we feel its power, 
 And still to pleasure's rosy bower 
 It flattering points, and fondly leads, 
 And crowns with wreaths the oldest heads 
 It cheers the seaman's dismal night ; 
 It puts the soldier's fears to flight ; 
 It soothes the lover's wild alarms, 
 Adds constancy to virtue's charms; 
 It melts the bosom icy cold ; 
 It dreams of love to maidens old 
 With renovating joy imparts, 
 And husbands gives to widow'd hearts ; 
 It pays the patriot's studious hour, 
 And wafts him to the seat of power ; 
 The poet feels its flame divine, 
 Lighting to Fame's immortal shrine. 
 It bids the tide of genius roll — 
 Triumphant o'er th' impassion'd soul : 
 It bursts the barriers of the grave ; 
 It lives to succour and to save ; 
 Ah ! hope, eternal bright and fair 
 Wafts fancy through the fields of air, 
 Descending— with seducing wile 
 With Doctor Syntax still to smile. 
 
 Even Mrs. Syntax felt its glow, 
 Warming her heart with gaudiest show, 
 Of courtly sights and honours new, 
 And triumphs proud and not a few; 
 When she return'd to give the ton 
 To parsons' wives and folks unknown ; 
 
IN LONDON. 1 1 
 
 Pride, petty power, declar'd that she 
 
 Amply at length aveng'd should be, 
 
 On all who by superior polish 
 
 Had made her oft look very drollish. 
 
 As for our sage, the thoughts of fame 
 
 Almost made him forget his dame 
 
 Was closely wedded to his back, 
 
 With firmest hold ; though oft her clack y 
 
 Which always claim'd attentive ear, 
 
 Now made him feel that she was near. 
 
 He then essay'd some kind discourse, 
 
 Now to his wife, next to his horse ; 
 
 While the hard path slow pacing* o'er, 
 
 And sensible of what he bore ; 
 
 Poor Grizzle patient stumbled on 
 
 To Kendal's welcome bridge of stone, 
 
 Which having reach'd, and to unpack 
 
 The living lumber on his back, 
 
 The grinning oft-called hostler came, 
 
 The Doctor next announced his name, 
 
 And to avoid his wife's reproach, 
 
 Instant declar'd that by the coach 
 
 They both were going up to London, 
 
 If snug and warm seats could be found in 
 
 That blessed, cheap and quick conveyance ; 
 
 But solemn vow'd that in abeyance, 
 
 He could not stop ; and Mrs. Syntax 
 
 Re-echo'd that 'twould be a fine tax 
 
 On purse and patience, should delay 
 
 Thus intervene upon their way. 
 
 Thus stood the case, none could tell whether 
 
 The man and wife could go together, 
 
 Until the coach arrived ; meantime 
 
 The Doctor thought he'd spin a rhyme, 
 
12 DOCTOK SYNTAX 
 
 Or the romantic confines trace 
 
 Of this delightful ancient place. 
 
 His rib, who felt a sharp chagrin, 
 
 He kindly handed to the inn ; 
 
 Then sauntered forth. The ground lie view'd, 
 
 Where once the ancient castle stood ; 
 
 A barrier good in feudal age, 
 
 Against the foes' invading rage. 
 
 It was a pleasant thing to look 
 
 Adown the Ken's meandering brook ; 
 
 Where hill o'er hill in verdant pride 
 
 Rose o'er the water's peopled side. 
 
 From pillar'd church to church-yard drear., 
 
 He turns, but ah ! no object here 
 
 Delights the eye ; yet strange to say, 
 
 An object here his eyes survey, 
 
 That led amid th' unwholesome dews 
 
 Our sage his spectacles to use. 
 
 Like maniac, seated all alone 
 
 On the cold damp and graven stone, 
 
 Of one from sorrow call'd away, 
 
 A brother bard in wild array, 
 
 Whom fancy on appropriate ground, 
 
 With opiate wreaths and cypress crown'd ; 
 
 He saw and heard him thus rehearse, 
 
 The " singular, wild, and happy verse," 
 
 Which pour'd at will from breast inspir'd. 
 
 The raptur'd public have admir'd. 
 
JN LONDON. 13 
 
 ®bt agjurg) par*, 
 
 A Fragment. 
 
 It was an hour 
 That fill'd the soul with awe and wonderment ; 
 The moon-beams stream 'd between the dismal 
 
 yews, 
 And streak'd the ground with paley lustres. 
 They seem'd the spreadings of a brook o'erflow'd , 
 And scatter'd into various scanty rills 
 That winded round each stony cover'd tomb. 
 I saw my shadow tremble on the wall, 
 A wall o'ergrown with ivy's pensive green ; 
 Dark and unwholesome, where the slimy snail 
 And crawling centipede made nightly bed. 
 There did I sit upon a sculptur'd stone, 
 The rank grass mix'd with every baneful weed, 
 Nettles and hemlocks, fungi, lank and chill, 
 With fleshy dampness, pressing round my limbs, 
 While toads aud lizards nestled in their shade. 
 It was a place fit for a sage to muse in, 
 Far from the world's tumultuous riot, far 
 From pride and folly, and the vain pretence 
 Of learning. Think Dot I retir'd from these 
 Disgusted, or in disappointment's hour 
 Sought refuge 'moog the dead. I pitied them, 
 And chose the scene of thought because Ilov'd it. 
 
 "te 1 
 
 There did I sit ! The wind with fitful breeze 
 SuDg, through the trembling aspens' hollow 
 groans. 
 
14 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Unvaried ; save where, in the interval 
 Of each returning blast, the plaintive owl 
 Sent forth a mournful cry. 
 
 There did I sit ! In musing melancholy, 
 My soul attendant to the solemn scene : 
 I mus'd upon the graves that gap'd around, 
 As yawning for their victims ; 
 In fancy, I unearth'd the coffin'd bones, 
 (The sexton's stature markt the depth of grave !) 
 I saw the lids unscrew'd — unwrapp'd the corpse 
 ■ — O, what a sight was there ! — 
 — Indeed it was an hour 
 That fill'dthe soul with wonder, awe, and dread. 
 
 *j$ .-k* *!?• *&■ ^f ^ 
 
 Wonder'd indeed our reverend sage, 
 To hear the poet rave and rage 
 In this strange mood — in such a place, 
 He guess'd, that if peculiar grace 
 Had not been by the Muse inspir'd, 
 Another spirit must have fir'd 
 His labouring brain. But soon he found 
 The man with cypress chaplets crown'd, 
 Was but a harmless poet's bye-blow, 
 Like many which both you and I know. 
 In verse all blank who sought renown, 
 Travelling like Syntax up to town ; 
 And here he sat in woeful case, 
 Waiting a humble outsiders place. 
 
 - Our Doctor had a friendly mind, 
 So with the stranger soon he join'd 
 
IN LONDON. 15 
 
 In intimate discourse, till, lo ! 
 
 The stage-coach horn began to blow, 
 
 Signal of haste ! at which dread sound 
 
 The weary throngs run crowding round 
 
 The guard and coachman hurry, scurry ! 
 
 — Forth Mrs. Syntax in a flurry 
 
 Impetuous rush'd ; but found enrag'd, 
 
 The inside places all engag'd, 
 
 Save one, upon the foremost seat — 
 
 The very thing that stirr'd her heat, 
 
 And that, unluckier still ! I ween, 
 
 Were two fat grazier lumps between, 
 
 Of human flesh, that threaten'd felly, 
 
 Ere long to press into a jelly. 
 
 Whatever came (nor think it odd is) 
 
 Betwixt their gravitating bodies. 
 
 The Doctor car'd not for himself, 
 
 But sorrow'd much that even pelf 
 
 Could not a better place provide 
 
 For her who thus adorn 'd his side ; 
 
 But vain were all complaints, poor madam, 
 
 Like all the daughters of old Adam, 
 
 Though a redoubted Vicar's wife 
 
 Was forc'd to bear the rubs of life, 
 
 Squeezed in, and swollen with pride and spleen, 
 
 The fenborn graziers' sides between, 
 
 While to the crowded coach's top 
 
 The Doctor mounted, in the hope 
 
 That when to the next stage they came, 
 
 He should again rejoin his dame. 
 
 Wrapt in full many a winding fold 
 Of Kendal cloth, you might behold 
 
16 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 The reverend Sir, with knees screw'd in, 
 And great coat button'd to the chin 5 
 Wedg'd close as in the stocks, beside 
 A Quaker prim, and sailor's bride : 
 While like a jewel in a casket, 
 Sat Mr. Mystic in the basket, 
 Gravest of bards that haunt the lake, 
 Or church -yard for the Muse's sake ; 
 And now a humble sonnet flow'd 
 On all the objects on the road, 
 And now in rapt pindaric strain, 
 He pour'd the opium of his brain, 
 In the astonish'd ears of all, 
 Who heard his " wondrous" madrigal, 
 Sonnets that none could understand, 
 But they who live in Cumberland. 
 
 Nor were there wanting on the way 
 Fit subjects for the Muse's lay : 
 Gay prospects stretch'd and smiling round, 
 Valleys and hills and cultur'd ground, 
 And villas, the abode of taste, 
 Won from the wild and rugged waste. 
 As thus the well throng'd stage coach glides, 
 We might attend to the insides, 
 And tell how long, to misery doom'd, 
 Poor Mrs. Syntax sat and fum'd ; 
 Her neighbours huge between, right wroth, 
 And grinding in her turn them both. 
 In front, fram'd in unlucky size, 
 A dandy bonnet pokes her eyes, 
 Stretching like its vain fashion far, 
 Fantastic and peninsular, 
 
IN LONDON. 17 
 
 From head of country milliner ; 
 
 While plac'd on either side of her, 
 
 Two bagmen in commercial dream 
 
 LolPd with indifference extreme, 
 
 We might endeavour to describe, 
 
 The looks, the grins, the sneer, the jibe, 
 
 The yawns, the incoherent sentence 
 
 Uttered in half conceiv'd repentance, 
 
 The sounds attention cannot rest on, 
 
 The unmeaning nod, the unanswer'd question ; 
 
 The frequent wonder why so slow, 
 
 A labouring coach up hill can go, 
 
 And why down hill their hearts to vex, 
 
 A coachman thus can risk their necks — 
 
 We might express, and try to hitch 
 
 Into our narrative distich ; 
 
 But this we will forbear, well knowing 
 
 Such dull routine is not worth showing ; 
 
 We'll pass the numerous mile- stones o'er, 
 
 As if we'd gone the road before. 
 
 Whoe'er with weary steps has trod, 
 And weary eyes the Northern road, 
 Will pardon if we think it long, 
 Nor strive to lengthen out our song, 
 With what upon that tedious way, 
 To each may happen every day. . 
 As on our hands we have much work, 
 We'll set our travellers down at York — 
 At the Black Swan to take a cup. 
 Of comfort warm, and also sup ; 
 For in her confines till next day, 
 The jaded pair resolv'd to stay, 
 
 D 
 
18 DOCTOK SYNTAX 
 
 And there to soothe their fancied woes, 
 We'll leave them in a sweet repose. 
 
 Oh, Nature, spread thy mantle round 
 The sacred walks of classic ground ; 
 And in the dream that hovers o'er, 
 And bids the soul of Syntax soar 
 To other climes, to other skies, 
 Where fair Augusta's turrets rise, 
 Oh, spread thy fairy vision's screen, 
 In laurels of perennial green ; 
 Fling o'er the happy pair thy shade, 
 And bless the couch for genius made ! 
 
 END OF CANTO FIRST. 
 
IN LONDON. 19 
 
 CANTO II. 
 
 Night is the sabbath of the soul, 
 Where genius reigns without control ; 
 And Syntax with his blooming wife, 
 In sleep forgot the cares of life. 
 
 At morn, when Mrs. Syntax woke, 
 Thus to her spouse she sweetly spoke : 
 " My objects I have often carried, 
 " Since the first day that we were married, 
 " Because I ever was inclin'd 
 " To rule your heart, not sway your mind ; 
 " A mind — whose glories are unfurl'd 
 " The pride and envy of the world. 
 " Since here we have resolv'd to stay 
 " And pass a Heavenly bridal day, 
 " I wish the day to duly keep, 
 " Nor spend it all in silent sleepy — 
 " But as it is a day of leisure, 
 " To pass it o'er in solemn pleasure, — 
 " To hear the Minster's sacred choir 
 " And catch the Scriptures' heav'nly fire,— 
 " And make my soul, sublimely glow, 
 " O'er all the sinful world below, 
 
20 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 " And listening to the organ's sound, 
 
 " Exalting soar above the ground ; 
 
 " To revel in those scenes sublime, 
 
 " Beyond the power of death and time ; 
 
 " And as I feel celestial flame 
 
 " Rush through my heart and warm my frame, 
 
 " I think I then should be inclin'd 
 
 " To shower my bounties on mankind ; 
 
 " And, when we leave the sacred walls, 
 
 " Attend to misery's piercing calls, 
 
 " And practice the good preacher's text, 
 
 " By visiting the pris'ners next. 
 
 " I'd like to see the Castle Jail, 
 
 " And listen to the captive's tale ; 
 
 " Some pence there is 'twixt you and I, 
 
 " To wipe the tear from misery's eye, 
 
 " If you agree I am most willing, 
 
 " To spend in charity my shilling, 
 
 " On some deserving hopeless debtor, 
 
 " Whose days have seemingly been better." 
 
 Syntax, accustom'd to knock under, 
 Now listen'd to his wife with wonder, 
 So much averse the charm to break, 
 That he was half afraid to speak ; 
 For though her words were nought but wind, 
 Yet, not being always soft and kind ; 
 And, as his lot had been to prove 
 The warmth of strife as well as love, 
 He fear'd the warmth of her address 
 Might lead to some less kind caress ; 
 And, if to many words it led, 
 She soon might take it in her head 
 
IN LONDON. 21. 
 
 To give her " thoughts that breath'd," a turn, 
 That he might feel them " words that burn." 
 
 Let not the reader take amiss 
 A metaphor so bold as this, 
 Or make the author seek a better ; — 
 It fits exact even to a letter. 
 No longer does it prove a joke 
 To reckon women's words as smoke ; 
 Though words are wind, we must declare, 
 Words are inflammable as air ; 
 The airs assum'd by many a wife, 
 Are oft the cause of bitter strife ! 
 And when poor Madam has the vapours, 
 These catch and blaze like phosph'rous tapers ! 
 Clothing with smiles his funny face, 
 And full of clerical grimace, 
 The Doctor kindly thus replied, 
 " My dear, your wish I will not chide. 
 " The objects which you have defin'd, - ' 
 " Do honour to your heart and mind ; 
 " And I will join in full accord, 
 " And follow, when you give the word." 
 
 Dressing and breakfast quick dispatch'd 
 The pair by Heaven so nicely match'd 
 Obedient to an inward call, 
 Sought the Cathedral's sacred wall ; 
 When seated in the solemn place 
 With humble mien and placid grace, 
 Good Madam, now, was on her mettle, 
 Her clashing moving-pow'rs to settle. 
 Her tongue had got a long vacation, 
 (To use her Doctor's illustration,) 
 
22 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Save in responses, now and then, 
 Or when she join'd the loud amen. 
 But though the voice refus'd her will, 
 Her organs were in play — though still 
 While tongue is tied, by due decorum, 
 Glad eyes can roam o'er all before 'em ; 
 O ! what a range ! what fine display 
 Of nature and of art's array ! 
 Of littleness and greatness join'd 
 In works of matter and of mind ; 
 The dome sublime, the motley crowd, 
 The warbling boys, the organ loud, 
 The Archbishop's throne, exalted high, 
 The crouching vergers crowding nigh, 
 The soldiers spruce, and ladies fair, 
 The alderman, and grand lord may'r 
 Obtain by turns, a hasty look 
 Much oftener than the godly book ; 
 Dispos'd, at times, to raise aloof 
 Her mind, up to the heav'nly roof, 
 Where all declares the mighty Hand 
 Which form'd the ocean and the land, 
 It would, by gravity, descend 
 Far meaner objects to attend, 
 While from the altar's emblems holy, 
 Her glance slides sly, and seeming slowly, 
 To peer at some vain beauty's shrine, 
 Whom coxcombs vainer deem'd divine ; 
 In vain the admirable skreen, 
 The aisle and transept placed between, 
 Presents its gothic work, to sue 
 For notice, 'mong the things in view, 
 A thing, carved out by Indian hands, 
 A thing she better understands, 
 
IN LONDON. 23 
 
 A thing despis'd and scorn'd by man, 
 A fine carv'd stick of iv'ry fan, 
 The finest thing she thinks she'd seen — 
 A much more admirable screen — 
 A screen those roving eyes to hide, 
 Alternate .squinting to each side ; 
 And; while they seem on prayer to fix, 
 Are slily peeping through the. sticks. 
 
 Now, Mrs. Syntax long had brought 
 Her mind to this consoling thought, 
 That, she was wise and good enough — 
 And further learning was but stuff. 
 This she had prov'd in many an instance, 
 And kept the Doctor at a distance, 
 While struggling hard through wedded life, 
 In scenes of deep domestic strife ; 
 Where she display'd her lofty senses, 
 Superior to her rib's pretences, 
 As soon as he began to preach, 
 She left him other minds to teach : 
 Her's she kept carefully herself, 
 As misers keep their much lov'd pelf. 
 Determin'd with her life and soul 
 To break the shackles of controul. 
 Of course she was no gainful hearer, 
 Of any preacher who came near her ; 
 But, if of hearing she had lack, 
 She balanc'd that by power of clack. 
 
 The preacher's text from common use, 
 By consequence could now produce 
 In this good lady's well train'd mind, 
 Of reg'lar thoughts no other kind 
 
24 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Than how to exercise, as best, 
 
 The sense with which she yet was blest, 
 
 The sense of seeing all around, 
 
 With observation most profound ; 
 
 And drawing, in this ample field, 
 
 The finest sketches it could yield, 
 
 Within the range of searching eyes, 
 
 With which, hereafter to surprise 
 
 The friends she left at Somerden, 
 
 When she should home return again, - 
 
 And there revive those scenes of pleasure, 
 
 By talking of them at her leisure ; 
 
 And leisurely, and deeply too, 
 
 She'd bring the stores of mind to view, 
 
 Astonish all the country round, 
 
 With knowledge dubious and profound. 
 
 How well employ'd her time was, then^ 
 Would now employ as quick a pen, 
 The faintest notion to convey 
 Of her improvement of the day, 
 As were her organs of the sight, 
 Illuminated with delight ; 
 O'er all the interesting scene, 
 Vivacious, gentle, and serene. 
 Now she survey'd, with ravish'd eyes, 
 The solemn temple's spacious size, 
 Next brought them down to things minute, 
 And mus'd upon a shining boot. 
 The fluted columns gain a glance, 
 Then oft her eyes are turn'd askance, 
 To view the plaits of Yorkshire linen 
 Display'd in caps of country women ; 
 
IN LONDON. 25 
 
 York's stately city, fam'd of yore, 
 For pride and regal vast uproar ; 
 Where Henry Bolingbroke was seen 
 To throw aside ambition's screen, 
 On glory's car exulting spring, 
 And hold the reins as England's King. 
 The windows rich, in burnish'd glass, 
 With tints so vivid that surpass 
 All the attempts of modern art, 
 Arrest the eye, and charm the heart, 
 With those bright eyes she often meets, 
 Arrang'd along th' opposing seats, 
 Which furnish her an odd suggestion, 
 On which she makes profound reflection,^ 
 That modern belle, and ancient saint, 
 Look better for a little paint. 
 
 At length strikes up the organ loud, 
 Quick rises all the pious crowd, 
 At once like soldiers stand " at ease ;" 
 All then proceed — just as they please. 
 If ever, reader, thou hast seen 
 A streamlet which by chance had been 
 In its career awhile held fast 
 By obstacles which could not last, 
 Involving all things in a jumble, 
 When once the torrent comes to tumble, 
 Then only canst thou form a thought, 
 How Madam's words came rolling out ; 
 Proving like crowds when they are pent, 
 How fast they flow'd when they got vent. 
 
 'Twas well for her dear husband's ear, 
 That inn and dinner were so near, 
 
 E 
 
26 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And that she was just then inclining 
 
 To stop her mouth, once more, by dining : 
 
 For so it happened, her good mouth 
 
 Was well disposed, by turns to both 
 
 Let mouthfuls of her words out-fly, 
 
 And take in also, a supply 
 
 Of other mouthfuls, of a sort 
 
 To give her frame its due support, 
 
 Nor let her body once suspect 
 
 Her fairer mind she would neglect : 
 
 But, be the occasion what it might, 
 
 It gave the Doctor great delight 
 
 That any cause could render slack 
 
 The springs of her confounding clack ; 
 
 And glad he was it had a stop, 
 
 E'en though by munching of a chop. 
 
 At dinner thus we'll leave the pair 
 To Heliogabalus's care, 
 Till Pegasus her breath obtains, 
 And verse again assumes the reins 
 Of power, to guide the steed along 
 With all the noble art of song. 
 While Satire mounts the car of joy, 
 Preceded by the laughing boy, 
 Who in his light and airy dream, 
 Hails Syntax as his favourite theme. 
 
 Tf Sancho when to rest compos'd, 
 Be highly prais'd, because dispos'd 
 In grateful memory to keep 
 " The man who first invented sleep," 
 Of hearty thanks what greater measure 
 Must he owe, who enjoys the pleasure 
 
IN LONDO\. 27 
 
 Of finding a luxurious table, 
 
 At which he is both free and able 
 
 To eat and drink, as he inclines, 
 
 Of savoury meats and generous wines — 
 
 To him, the way who found out, first, 
 
 Hunger to satisfy and thirst, — 
 
 And having genius these to find, 
 
 To more inventions had a mind, — 
 
 And, finding food, kept onward looking, 
 
 Till he discovered skilful cooking ; 
 
 O ! jolly genius of the feast ! 
 
 Who first for man's use cook'd a beast ! 
 
 How many, many thanks are thine, 
 
 From all who have the luck to dine 
 
 As alderman — on viands rare — 
 
 Not on a poet's scanty fare, 
 
 The bread and cheese of fell despair ; 
 
 When with an onion he's content, 
 
 To spin his rhyme, and keep his Lent, 
 
 And quench his thirst, beside his Muse 
 
 On pure, but cold Parnassian dews, 
 
 That chill the soul, but warm the brain, 
 
 And wake the lofty lyre again. 
 
 From dinner nice and strong brown nappy, 
 
 The Doctor and his wife rose happy ; 
 
 Giants refresh'd, behold them start, 
 
 To spend the day's remaining part, 
 
 And roam within the Castle's pale 
 
 Now turned into a country jail : 
 
 Where glory wav'd her ensign high, 
 
 Now rises misery's hopeless sigh. 
 
 Together link'd, these curious mortals 
 Enter'd the Castle's awful portals, 
 
28 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And view'd the striking ample space, 
 
 Gracing th' interior of the place ; 
 
 And buildings, neat and snug, around 
 
 This fine parading, airing ground ; 
 
 So soon did madam's glad surprise 
 
 Burst forth at once from lips and eyes. 
 
 " Call this fine place a sorry jail — " 
 
 " How wrong !" cried she, " how false the tale J 
 
 u Complain of this ? 'Tis quite absurd 
 
 " To take complaints on people's word. 
 
 " If people knew what comfort meant, 
 
 " I think they here might be content ; 
 
 " But some folks would at heaven mutter, 
 
 " And quarrel with their bread and butter ; 
 
 " At living here if they are vex'd 
 
 ft I wonder where they would live next : 
 
 " As for myself, I do declare, 
 
 " I never breath'd a purer air ; 
 
 " Yet those the law calls confin'd debtors, 
 
 " Wish to live as becomes their betters." 
 
 The rattle stopt, a debtor's wife, 
 Possess'd of airs of higher life, 
 Shrouded by garb in humble style 
 Good madam's notice gain'd awhile ; 
 And telling her of children dear, 
 And husband laid on sorrow's bier, 
 Dependant on her humble means, 
 For bread she from affliction gleans ; 
 Regretting that it was not Monday, 
 And paying due respect to Sunday, 
 Said that on other days she could 
 Afford her bargains cheap and good ; 
 
IN LONDON. 29 
 
 And spoke of all the various ware, 
 
 Expos'd as if it were a fair, 
 
 By needy hands of prisoners made, 
 
 To sell as articles of trade : 
 
 Of garters, stockings, lace and shoes, 
 
 Enough for fools to pick and chuse ; 
 
 With needles, pins, and tapes and thread, 
 
 To get themselves a little bread. 
 
 Our madam, who was not too nice, 
 Caught the suggestion, in a trice, 
 And thought this day as good as any, 
 For saving, if she could, a penny ; 
 Then told her suppliant, if she could 
 Afford : her bargains, cheap and good, 
 Though it was Sunday, she would try, 
 Just out of charity to buy. 
 
 These welcome words then soon produce 
 Things made for shew as well as use ; 
 With which the novice trader tries 
 To gratify our lady's eyes ; 
 While she, howe'er her sight was treated* 
 Was fearful lest she should be cheated, 
 And would at last, have nothing bought, 
 Had not fine caps her fancy caught. 
 These caps were relics of a store, 
 Which, henceforth, would exist no more, 
 With which a mother had supplied 
 Her daughter's toilette when a bride, — 
 And with these remnants thus to part, 
 Had almost broke this daughter's heart ; 
 But even by them to gain relief 
 She found a solace to her grief ; 
 
30 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Though that came slow, and what was worse, 
 As scanty from a niggard's purse. 
 
 The bargain oft was off and on, 
 For madam said she must begone ; 
 But, go she could not, while both willing 
 To get the caps, and save the shilling ; 
 She call'd the suppliant hard, and then 
 Tears flow'd, as ink flows from my pen : 
 This gain'd the object in her view, 
 And sav'd her niggard shilling too. 
 
 Charm'd with her bargain, and herself, 
 For having sav'd some paltry pelf, 
 She turn'd with much complacence round,' 
 To one who pac'd the airing ground, 
 Who seem'd, as far as she could scan, 
 A gentle, and a well bred man : 
 As pur -blind folks oft-times mistake 
 For gentlemen, what tailors make 
 To hang coats on, within their shops, 
 So knaves and fools, and rogues and fops 
 Are oft, by half -wise folks caress'd 
 For gentlemen, because well dress'd. 
 This gentleman was duly suited, 
 In smart top coat, and smartly booted ; 
 And offer'd, with all due grimace, 
 To do the honours of the place. 
 He was there at his tailor's suit, 
 He said, because the clipping brute 
 Was disappointed of the payment, 
 Long promis'd of his paltry raiment ; 
 " While," added he, " he knew my case — 
 " I'd lost my all upon a race." 
 
IN LONDON. 31 
 
 With pleasure, pride, and pity join'd, 
 Our madam soon made up her mind 
 This guide's politeness to accept, 
 Nor dar'd the Doctor to object ; 
 And as they progress'd in their walk, 
 Madam proceeded in her talk : 
 Sometimes she dwelt on foul mishaps 
 Sometimes descanted on her caps ; 
 Spoke of the bargain she had made 
 Not as a mean affair of trade, 
 But done with a much nobler end, 
 To shew herself the woman's friend ; 
 While our fine gentleman lamented 
 He had not, by his wink, prevented 
 Advantage taken most unduly, 
 Of what was charity most truly. 
 
 Proceeding in polite attention, 
 Our gentleman made proper mention 
 Of curious things in the Museum, 
 (Arid he'd take care that they should see 'em,) 
 Which in the gov'nor's lodge were kept, 
 And saying this in, quick, they stept, 
 And saw such, as 'tis doubtful whether, 
 The like were ever brought together, 
 Except to make the witches' spell, 
 Or fill the cabinets of Hell. 
 On one shelf rang'd the blood-stained knives, 
 Which men had used to kill their wives, 
 And — to make wives with husbands even, 
 The phials from which wives had given, 
 Potions to lay their men asleep, — 
 On the next shelf their stations keep ; 
 
32 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Here, to excite due horrid wonder, , 
 Pistols emloyed in murd'rous plunder 
 Were plac'd on proper peaceful stands, 
 Which, erst, were borne by robbers' hands ; 
 There implements of coining lay, 
 With all their arts in full display, 
 And other instruments of crimes, 
 Which culprits had, at sundry times, 
 Against them brought as evidences 
 Of various horrible offences. 
 
 Our curious pair, most sage observing, 
 These things were worthy of preserving, 
 Because they must produce impressions 
 Which tended to restrain trangressions ; 
 While their smart guide, with inward smile, 
 At their strange ignorance of guile, 
 And who, at races, oft was aiming 
 At lower trick than those of gaming, 
 Conceiving these vain simple folks 
 Fit objects for a gainful hoax ; 
 As here, with thoughts profound, they linger'd 
 He, being sharp, and nimble finger'd, 
 Jostled good Madam with a squeeze, 
 And drew away the caps with ease. 
 
 Unconscious of her grievous loss, 
 And void of all sensations cross, 
 Madam was strangely led to grieve 
 Because her beau guide now took leave ; 
 But soon dispell'd her rising sorrow 
 By thinking of her work to-morrow ; 
 And, to be fitly for't, prepar'd, 
 She straitway to the inn repair'd. 
 
IN LONDON. 33 
 
 When there arriv'd, she quickly tries 
 To treat again her longing eyes, 
 But ah, 'twas gone, that precious lace 
 Which gave her pretty caps their grace. 
 Where can the poet language find 
 To express the agony of mind, 
 Which Mrs. Syntax felt, when lo ! 
 She miss'd her caps ? — In bitter woe 
 She stood, the statue of despair 
 — Anguish, and never-dying care, 
 Till burst the agonies of grief, 
 And gave her soul a faint relief ; 
 And what vast floods such losses cost, 
 " They best can paint who feel 'em most. 1 ' 
 
 To ease the lady's heart and head, 
 The Doctor took his spouse to bed ; 
 And on the pillow of repose 
 He hush'd to rest her anxious woes ; 
 Resolving with the lark to rise, 
 And fly where London's towers surprise, 
 These objects view'd, our pair next morn 
 Were summon'd by the high-flyer's horn, 
 Their places to resume once more, 
 Outside or inside as before. 
 Careful of her dear self, my lady 
 Was always eager, quick, and ready 
 Her own lov'd comfort to secure, 
 So of an inside place made sure ; 
 And flouncing down with aspect glowing 
 Told all she was to London going ; 
 No love had she, or wish or care, 
 For rural views however fair ; 
 
34 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Of country sights and such like stuff, 
 She said she had at home enough ; 
 And as for airs, 'twas said she knew 
 Well, how to give herself a few, 
 Without exposing her gentility 
 To low and vulgar affability. 
 
 Unto his partner's wish contrary 
 The Doctor, though a dignitary, 
 Now chose for love of nature's face 
 On the coach -top his former place ; 
 Some say he wished to be aloof 
 From Madam's tongue, so took the roof, 
 And that he would on foot have trudg'd it, 
 Could he have 'scap'd her horrid budget ; 
 But we can say, who know him better, 
 'Twas all through love of Madam Nature. 
 He lov'd in picturesque delight 
 To dwell on every rural sight 
 And rural sound — even now he feels 
 The rattling of the coaches' wheels, 
 An inspiration pour along, 
 Like that which breathes in Blackmore's song-,* 
 He often thought of th' applause, 
 For following close the drama's laws, 
 Which he should gain when forth was brought, 
 The labour'd offspring of his thought ; 
 Which criticism well might say 
 Was both a fair and faultless play ; 
 In which each bold unerring rule 
 Of Aristotle's measur'd school, 
 
 * Pope said that Sir Richard Blackmore wrote to 
 the rumbling of his coach's wheels. 
 
IN LO'NDOX. 35 
 
 So rigidly throughout were kept,, 
 
 That not one single act o'erstept 
 
 The bounds of tragical propriety, 
 
 Or modern views of old society. 
 
 The Doctor thought his fame would rise,. 
 
 Triumphant in a nation's eyes, 
 
 The smiles of all the fair would gain, 
 
 From sweet St. Giles to Drury Lane. 
 
 Thus on the coach in happy style, 
 Our Syntax did the hours beguile, 
 When closing down his mind's queer page, 
 A brace of lawyers, dark, and sage 
 He listen'd to and often took 
 Opinions from their learned book ; 
 But as they pass'd along the road, 
 (The statute scorn'd to make it broad,) 
 A rival coach came fast along : 
 The horses urged by Jehu's thong, 
 And when the coaches touch'd each other, 
 The Doctor nearly tumbled over, 
 " The shock's prophetic," cried our sage, 
 " To me upon a different stage ;" 
 — 'Tis good for those who often ride 
 To have the law upon their side, 
 Law's shoulder sav'd him from a fall, 
 Which would have genius ruin'd all- 
 Poor Mrs. Syntax all the while, 
 Was dozing on the leathern pile 
 Of well stuff'd coach, and in her nap, 
 Heard neither din or jostling rap, 
 Caring but little for her neighbours, 
 And dreaming of her husband's labours ; 
 
'$ 
 
 36 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Before her, and in close vicinity, 
 Were specimens of rare virginity ; 
 Damsels who only took their places, 
 To jog with black legs to the l-aces. 
 To Doncaster they quickly drew, 
 Which all declar'd they fully knew. 
 You might derive from every sentence, 
 With jockey crowds their close acquaintance,, 
 Who ventur'd neck and crop to win 
 St. Ledger's stakes, or flats take in ; 
 They prov'd they'd studied on the course, 
 And knew a jockey from his horse : 
 And true our dame it much did please, 
 To hear them mention tithes and fees, 
 Not thinking them cant words of those 
 Who live on others' wants and woes : 
 She hail'd them as the friends of church ; 
 But blacklegs aye leave priests in lurch. 
 She prais'd their morals, and their mind, 
 But ignorance always leads the blind. 
 They set her down a simple dolly 
 And ridicul'd her pride and folly. 
 Leaving the scenes of riotous sport, 
 Where rogues and fashionables resort, 
 To those who often are pursuing, 
 Such costly courses to their ruin. 
 Our hasty travellers after dinner, 
 Left the St. Ledger's to the winner, 
 Reach'd in a trice old Stamford town, 
 And took a cordial at the Crown. 
 
 As the advancing sun's bright rays 
 Threw light upon our travellers' ways r 
 
IN LONDON. 
 
 37 
 
 Wide over vales and mountains high 
 
 They wander'd with delighted eye, 
 
 The fam'd high flyer flies along 
 
 To Wansford, fam'd in doggrel song ; 
 
 The Doctor lifts his glassy eyes, 
 
 With something, nearly like surprise ; 
 
 For o'er the road a well-daub'd sign, 
 
 Bore underneath this brilliant line, 
 
 ' Wansford in England." Syntax said, 
 
 ' Coachee, what means this odd tirade ?" 
 
 ' Why that," said coachee, " 's known to all 
 
 ' The wise, the foolish, great and small ; 
 
 ' So is the story of it too, 
 
 ' Which I myself will swear is true." 
 
 ' Oh, if you swear," the Doctor cried, 
 
 ' Truth must be on your righteous side ; 
 
 c Even if your grandam told the tale. 
 
 ' An oath is certain to prevail ; 
 
 ' I in the pulpit vouch, you know, 
 
 ' For things three thousand years ago : 
 
 ' My business is to say they're true, 
 
 ' As in the present business, you 
 
 ' May safely swear, nor dread perdition, 
 
 ' For you are speaking from tradition." 
 
 ' A hundred years ago, they say, 
 
 1 The people here were making hay, 
 
 ' (For hay grew then as well as now, 
 
 ' To feed the horse and eke the cow ;) 
 
 ' Tir'd with his labour, sweet reposing 
 
 ' Upon a hay-cock's scented bosom, 
 
 i A country booby tranquil lay 
 
 ' Until the stream swept him away : 
 
 ' A swelling flood from distant rains, 
 
 ' Made the press'd river burst her veins, 
 
38 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 " And sweeping o'er the smiling fields 
 
 " Before her all resistless yields ; 
 
 " Haycock and man born from the ridge, 
 
 " Roll'd through the arch of Wansford bridge 
 
 " When starting at the people's cry, 
 
 " He bellow'd out, ' Oh, where am I ?' 
 
 " ' At Wansford,' bawl'd the folks amain ; 
 
 " ' Wansford in England, do you mean V 
 
 " Loud laugh'd the people one and all, 
 
 " But sav'd him from the tempest's squall, 
 
 " And dragg'd the sleepy wight once more 
 
 " In safety to his native shore." 
 
 The coachman's story much did please, 
 
 And set the Doctor quite at ease ; 
 
 Who gave his thanks with laughter hearty, 
 
 To the facetious friendly party, 
 
 Who thus made jocund hours run round, 
 
 As fast as coach wheels on the ground, 
 
 And occupied with jests like these, 
 
 They came to Stilton fam'd for cheese. 
 
 There on the essence of rich cream, 
 
 And tea well worth the poet's theme 
 
 They breakfasted, and rattled on, 
 
 By hedges trim to Huntingdon, 
 
 And Ware and Waltham's Abbey old, 
 
 Where Harold sleeps in hallow'd mould — 
 
 Harold, who was compell'd to yield, 
 
 His Saxon crown in Hastings' field, 
 
 To Norman Will, who after bore 
 
 The title of the Conqueror. 
 
 Thence on to Edmonton they came ; 
 Where Gilpin of immortal name, 
 
v. 
 
 
IN LONDON. 39 
 
 Compell'd to make his awkward dash, 
 Gallopp'd in terror through the Wash. 
 But who their various thoughts can tell, 
 Quick rising as by magic spell, 
 And bursting on the astonish'd eyes, 
 The spires sublime of London rise, 
 High in mid air, sublime o'er all, 
 The sacred dome of great St. Paul 
 Appear'd, whilst Madam bawl'd, " I vow, 
 " It looks like Skiddaw's lofty brow," 
 Quick the High Flyer turns again, 
 And rattles into Fetter Lane ; 
 Till at the sign of the White Horse, 
 They check their bold careering course. 
 Syntax descends in merry pin, 
 And hands his simp'ring lady in ; 
 And bade the waiters in a trice, 
 Get viands good and supper nice ; 
 For now they thought, as travellers do, 
 Of nought but roasted, boiled, or stew, 
 And beds well warm'd and comforts rare, 
 Which may tir'd nature's frame repair. 
 
 Escap'd from travel, toil — and pain — 
 Behold our pair in Fetter Lane ; 
 Each danger now securely past, 
 London receives them safe at last, 
 London — the Doctor's field of fame, 
 Where he will glean a deathless name. 
 Right glad were both to go to bed, 
 And each to rest a weary head : 
 But while she sweetly slept and sound, 
 No sleep for Doctor could be found ; 
 
40 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Whene'er he tried to catch a wink, 
 His errand rous'd him, still, to think 
 And, thus, his time was pass'd, till morn 
 Was usher'd in, by twanging horn, 
 Announcing coaches setting out, 
 Each on its proper distant route. 
 
 Restless he rises, then and star'd- 
 At all the bustle of the yard ; 
 But all the bustle there, was nought, 
 Compar'd with that he found in thought ; 
 Nor could diverting turn afford 
 To thoughts so fix'd upon his Lord. 
 
 Vain pains the Doctor took, devising, 
 To fill up from the hour of rising, 
 To that of visiting his patron, 
 The tedious void ; till our shrewd matron, 
 Awaking fresh, and full of life 
 To do the duties of a wife, 
 And well brush up his outward man — 
 Commenc'd her bustling thrifty plan. 
 His new coat was but six months old, 
 And still, she said, as good as gold ; 
 And if it shone not with a gloss, 
 'Twas not of brushing for the loss. 
 His other garments, she declar'd, 
 Were excellent and fresh repair'd ; 
 And now for once, to make him spruce, 
 (Devoted to this special use,) 
 She had provided black silk hose, 
 To match his fine new London shoes ; 
 While, to crown all, his hat and wig, 
 Were fitly dress'd, to make him big. 
 
IN LONDON. 41 
 
 Pleas'd with her work, she eyed him round, 
 Pleas'd with her looks, he pac'd the ground, 
 Till off she turn'd him, neat and trim, 
 That, as she said, " 'twas who but him ?" 
 Breakfast was next dispatch'd, in haste, 
 That time should not be spent in waste : 
 Away he goes, with hopes w T e!l stof'd, 
 In anxious mood to see my Lord. 
 
 When deep, in dark oblivion's shade, 
 By Time's o'erwhelming hand, is laid 
 Each little, trifling cause, whence springs 
 The fate of empires and of kings ; 
 The Muse, with weary steps must trace 
 The tricks where darkness clouds the place ; 
 And oft where fiction lights the rays, 
 Truth dreams, and points out happier ways : 
 Happier the bard, indulg'd by fate, 
 Who views the tale he must relate, 
 And paints the portrait of the hour 
 Bright with the beams of fancy's power ; 
 And as the theme invites to sing, 
 Can rack a rebel — or a king ; 
 Or wake to life, from long repose, 
 The varied scenes of human woes. 
 The gaily, picturing, laughing Muse 
 Oft sheds the balm of pity's dews, 
 Calls forth that spirit bold and strong, 
 Which roll'd the sister arts along, 
 And made each feeling of the soul 
 Rush to the breast — beyond controul, 
 With all the fire that Homer knew, 
 And all his national spirit too; 
 
 G 
 
42 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Acting 1 , with grave or comic art, 
 Full many an odd fantastic part, 
 Such as our Doctor with surprise, 
 Now saw, where'er he turn'd his eyes, 
 In grand confusion crowding thick, 
 'Mid London's streets of mud and brick. 
 
 So brisk and proud the Doctor stalk'd 
 Along the streets, that, while he walk'd, 
 He often struck the stranger's sight, 
 As one whose head and heels were light. 
 — Ah ! little dream'd these gazing folks, 
 As thus they pass'd, and crack'd their jokes, 
 How pond'rous were that poor head's notions, 
 Which gave those heels their nimble motions ; 
 And little did that wig surprise, 
 Except for sneers in vulgar eyes, 
 Which cover'd that reflecting skull, 
 That only seem'd, but was not dull ; 
 And little then these scoffers thought 
 A thing that seem'd with foppery fraught, 
 Should thenceforth be preserv'd with care, ~1 
 Always blooming — fresh and fair, /" 
 
 Preserving Syntax' shape and air ; * 
 
 And booksellers — in every age 
 Display the portrait of the sage, 
 And picturesque — and proper too 
 Give both the man and wig their due ; 
 And artists deem it bounden duty, 
 To keep the wig in pristine beauty. 
 
 When safe arriv'd in Portland Place, 
 The Doctor, then, with slacken'd pace, 
 
IN LONDON. 43 
 
 Adjusting well his fine cravat, 
 
 And next his new dress'd wig and hat, 
 
 Reach'd my Lord's door, without mishap, 
 
 And made it sound with treble rap. 
 
 The well-watch'd door soon opening wide, 
 
 Admits the Doctor's stately stride ; 
 
 And, soon, the menials of the hall 
 
 Survey his figure gaunt and tall, 
 
 And looking at him with contempt, 
 
 As one who came to make attempt 
 
 To gain a paltry book-subscription, 
 
 Like authors of a mean description, 
 
 Began to scrutinize his phiz, 
 
 As subject-matter for a quiz ; 
 
 While he, too, sage though simple creature, 
 
 Was glancing at each face and feature, 
 
 To, try, 'midst all the servants round, 
 
 An old one might, perchance, be found, 
 
 Whom he had had the chance to meet 
 
 At his great patron's country seat, 
 
 And who could make due intimation 
 
 Of Doctor Syntax' visitation, 
 
 In vain he rolls his anxious eyes, 
 
 With disappointment and surprise, 
 
 At all the footmen, spruce and pert, 
 
 Who seem'd dispos'd his pride to hurt ; 
 
 So d iff rent from the hearty greeting, 
 
 Which he was always sure of meeting, 
 
 Whene'er, in country scenes, he met 
 
 Either the little folks or great ; 
 
 So diff rent from the decent mien 
 
 Which he$ with calm delight, had seen 
 
 In his good Lord's old country hall, 
 
 Among the menials one and all, 
 
44 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Then, just on purpose to regain 
 His wonted ease, he was right fain, 
 Ere he approach'd his patron's sight — 
 He'd set his wig and thoughts aright, 
 And both his heart and eyes to cheer, 
 By some one face of pertness clear, 
 'Twas politic to condescend 
 To ask for one domestic friend, 
 And thus the butler sought to call 
 To gain the good will of the hall. 
 Assuming, then, a little state, 
 As if accustom'd to the great, 
 His wish he ventur'd to announce, 
 And with due emphasis pronounce, 
 So as to have a right effect, 
 And thus obtain his due respect : — 
 " Is my good friend, the butler near ? 
 " Tell him that Doctor Syntax's here." 
 
 Soon as the celebrated name 
 Of such a favourite of fame 
 Was heard in form announced aloud, 
 Amid the tinsell'd list'ning crowd, — 
 How quick it work'd, like magic spell, 
 'Tis not in poet's power to tell ; 
 How quick it chang'd each quizzing fool, 
 Into a mean, admiring tool ; 
 How quick all sneer and proud neglect 
 Was rais'd to lively, warm respect ! 
 Recovering from his deep surprise 
 Each starts, each looks with diff rent eyes, 
 And all alert, now, every one, 
 All, all, set off, who best could run, 
 
IN LONDON. 45 
 
 To see if butler was at home, 
 
 And tell him that the Doctor's come. 
 
 Soon as the butler's ear had caught, 
 The welcome news, the jocund thought 
 Of that nocturnal introduction, 
 Which had produced the cellar-suction, 
 Rush'd on the butler's recollection, 
 With every apposite reflection, 
 Of mirth and glee, and weleome hearty, 
 Becoming both his place and party ; 
 No stale excuse, no long delay, 
 Obstructed then the butler's way ; 
 No etiquette, no formal bow, 
 Was either us'd, or thought of now ; 
 But joyfully and prompt he came 
 Soon as he heard the welcome name, 
 And by his cordial frankness show'd, 
 The warm regard that inward glow'd. 
 He caught the Doctor by the hand, 
 With aspect, smiling, soft and bland : 
 The Doctor, close return'd the squeeze, 
 Altho' his pride, it did not please ; 
 But Church to State must humble low, 
 Or it preferment will not know; 
 And he promotion — can afford 
 Who's " locum tenen&" of a Lord. 
 As to a regiment is a suttler, 
 So useful to a peer's a butler ; 
 He forms the ample savoury mess— 
 His master's dinner and his dress : 
 For servants out of livery now 
 Are mingled with the liveried crew, 
 
46 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And butlers now acquire the plan 
 Of acting as my lord's " own man ;'* 
 This saves the master vast expence, 
 And gives the varlet power immense. 
 
 The Doctor ey'd the butler o'er, 
 Who clos'd in haste the massy door — 
 *' I know you always were my friend, 
 " And will remain so to the end — 
 " The end of all things," Syntax cried ; 
 " Won't be by you — or me. descried. 
 " The end of all which I want here 
 " Will soon to you — and I appear." 
 " Advance — advance," the butler said ; 
 " We're something of a similar trade: 
 " To blunder nonsense to my master/ 
 " My interest to advance the faster ; 
 " You blunder nonsense to your bishop, 
 " And thus your table amply dish up." 
 " Why, zounds," said Syntax : " do you think, 
 " I only preach to eat and drink ? 
 " And have no heaven-inspir'd call 
 " To Him who guides and governs all." 
 " Two of a trade should ne'er dispute 
 " On clerical subjects, — I am mute ; 
 " We both by interest want to rise — 
 u On earth — neglectful of the skies. 
 " But Doctor, Doctor, ere you move 
 
 " To SEE THE LORD WHO REIGNS ABOVE, 
 
 " Come down with me into the cellar, 
 " Where often I'm a lowly dweller, 
 " A glass of port, some bread and cheese — 
 " Will set your spirits quite at ease, 
 
IN LONDON. 47 
 
 " And make you fit to meet my Lord, 
 *' To whom you pleasure, aye, afford." 
 
 A glass of port made Syntax smile, 
 Free from sorrow, care, and guile ; 
 The butler, acting as a page, 
 Now to his Lordship led the sage. 
 
 By such regard sincere, and kind, 
 Regaining quietude of mind, 
 The Doctor was quite self-contented, 
 And well prepar'd to be presented ; 
 But little did my Lord expect, 
 To meet this token of respect ; 
 And his amazement and surprize, 
 Betray'd were plain, by both his eyes, 
 Though he by far was too well bred, 
 To shew them much by what he said. 
 
 Our Doctor soon his Lordship told, 
 It was not for the love of gold, 
 That he to London city came, 
 But from an ardent love of fame, 
 A hope that led him to presume, 
 He'd snatch, at once, the wreaths that bloom 
 Upon her highest fairest tree, 
 For he had wrote a Tragedy, 
 In which he boldly dar'd to throttle 
 His hero, as great Aristotle 
 Would have delighted to survey 
 In sad reality, or play. 
 He fondly hoped 'twas such a piece, 
 As would have pleased Athenian Greece, 
 
48 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And sure he was, could he but get 
 Of players like, a proper set, 
 Who knew the scenes of ancient time, 
 And how to speak the true sublime, 
 Each scene, nay even each distich, 
 Would make a ruin'd playhouse rich. 
 
 His Lordship smil'd to hear our sage, 
 Dwell thus upon his favourite page ; 
 And now and then his head he shook, 
 As Syntax shewed the tragic book, 
 Wherein he dealt the doom of death, 
 To the poor beings of his breath, 
 And while he thus detail'd his object, 
 And warm'd, in progress, with his project, 
 And talked of interest, and plot 
 And unities, and God knows what, 
 Proceeding through each act and scene, 
 With many an episode between, 
 'Twas not even in politeness' power, 
 To keep concealed, for that long hour, 
 The strange surprise, and frequent smile, 
 Which the sage Doctor's want of guile 
 Fail'd not, in that time to excite, 
 While struggling hard to seem polite. 
 
 But, still, my Lord was truly kind, 
 For in his elevated mind, 
 Though conscious rank and power stood high, 
 He is dispos'd to cherish nigh, 
 So much of generous disposition, 
 To temper his high rais'd condition, 
 That, noble as he is by birth, 
 No being knowing him on earth 
 
IN LONDON. 49 
 
 Can say through all his earthly span 
 He, as a lord, was still a man. 
 True he had failings ; but 'tis true, 
 Compassion still he kept in view, 
 And never suffer'd pride to part 
 The generous feelings of his heart. 
 
 With all his usual courteous air, 
 Acceding to the Doctor's prayer, 
 And mingling no unkind denial, 
 Howe'er he feared the public trial, 
 Most heartily and quickly granted 
 All the support the Doctor wanted. 
 His Lordship's taste peculiar lay, 
 In the right judgment of a play ; 
 His noble name to all the town, 
 Patron and crjtic was well known ; 
 The green-room bent his words to hear, 
 And authors trembled at his sneer ; 
 Nay, such his influence, grave or gay, 
 His very look had damn'd a play ; 
 My Lord was never one of those, 
 Who pompously turn up their nose 
 At modest worth, when with decorum 
 And dignity it stands before 'em : 
 He nobly now resolv'd to show, 
 How far he could for Syntax go. 
 And with most kind good humour said, 
 " Syntax, I'll shew you to the trade :" 
 The Doctor shew'd his church servility, 
 By praising all our chief nobility ; 
 Like head of Cerberus who guard 
 At theatres — as watch and ward ; 
 
 H 
 
50 DOCTOE SYNTAX 
 
 He had an introduction too, 
 Which set him off in glorious cue ; 
 Thus opening to dramatic fame, 
 Road to the managers great name. 
 This precious passport to the house, 
 Our Doctor's hopes began to rouse ; 
 He bow'd with aspect mild and low, 
 To him from whom his heart's hopes flow ; 
 " In .duty bound I'll ever pray 
 " For you, my great Lord, every day." 
 His Lordship bow'd him from the room, 
 And Syntax smil'd in youthful bloom ; 
 Descending rapid to the door 
 He shook the butler's hand once more. 
 His soul with proud ambition burn'd, 
 When to his darling — he return'd : 
 Into the room he rush'd, as though 
 The butler caus'd his cheeks to glow ; 
 Soon Mrs. Syntax saw with hope 
 Something that gave her feelings scope : 
 " Why, Syntax, you are all in glee, 
 " Communicate your thoughts to me." 
 " I've got," said he, " a letter here, 
 " An introduction, never fear." 
 She scann'd it o'er, the Doctor kiss'd, 
 And clasp'd him round his limber waist. 
 " This tragedy will make our fortune, 
 " My Lord can raise or fall the curtain : 
 " And his auspicious, powerful sway, 
 " Will keep damnation from the play." 
 
 Good madam's heart now set at ease, 
 Was well dispos'd her spouse to please, 
 
IN LONDON. 51 
 
 And make his comfort quite complete, 
 By placing him in lodgings neat, 
 Where they might live in decent mode, 
 While London town was their abode ; 
 And ask'd him as a kind of honour, 
 In this pursuit to wait upon her, 
 And favour her with proper aid, 
 While she walk'd forth in due parade. 
 
 
 END OF THE SECOND CANTO, 
 
52 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 CANTO III. 
 
 O ! 'twas a goodly sight, I ween, 
 
 To witness the important scene 
 
 When Ma'am from Fetter Lane set out, 
 
 To enter on her bustling route ; 
 
 To see her swell with silk and pride, 
 
 With Doctor stalking by her side ; 
 
 As on complacently they go, 
 
 Up Holborn, and through Middle- Row, 
 
 And then display their finest airs, 
 
 In Bloomsbury and Bedford Squares, 
 
 And see them pass, with pace discreet, 
 
 Till they reach'd Marybone High Street. 
 
 'Twas there the lady had intended, 
 
 As she was kindly recommended, 
 
 To fix her station for a while, 
 
 Where she could live in proper style; 
 
 And ne'er were pains more anxious shewn, 
 
 To take good care of number one ; 
 
 So that it may be ta'en for granted, 
 
 She suited was with all she wanted. 
 
 — No hole or corner of the house, 
 
 Was left unview'd by her or spouse ; 
 
IN LONDON. 53 
 
 "> 
 
 All, from the cellar to the garret, 
 
 All, she contrived to search and ferret ; 
 
 And not content with common views, 
 
 Turn'd all she saw to thoughts of use. 
 
 How well she turn'd the hostess' chat, 
 
 From that to this, and this to that, 
 
 From kitchen, and from kitchen-stuff, 
 
 To where she bought that fine brown muff; 
 
 From one of Kitchener's old maps, 
 
 To some good place to buy cheap caps, 
 
 And every other useful thing, 
 
 To which she could her hostess bring, 
 
 'Tis not in poet's power of verse, 
 
 With honours fitting to rehearse. 
 
 Thus pleas'd at length themselves to find 
 Accommodated to their mind, 
 Our second Eschylus next day, 
 Having resolv'd to take his play 
 To the dispensing judge who sits, 
 Like Pluto, on play-writers' wits, 
 With spirits gay, and cock-a-hoop, 
 Long, long before the hour of soup, 
 He bade his tender wife adieu, 
 And boldly sallied forth anew ; 
 Thrice happy in the pleasing dream, 
 Of the reception which his theme 
 And he himself were sure to meet, 
 At the prime managerial seat 
 Of all theatrical affairs, 
 Where suppliant authors bend like players ; 
 When to the ruler of the boards, 
 He proudly should submit my Lord's 
 
54 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 High testimony of his merit, 
 
 And show the bright transcendent spirit 
 
 That breath'd throughout his matchless play. 
 
 Musing, it chanc'd he took his way 
 
 Through fam'd St. Giles's crowded scene, 
 
 Where many a curious act has been 
 
 Perform 'd, and many a striking piece, 
 
 Unrivall'd even by those of Greece, 
 
 I wot has raised sincere surprize, 
 
 By night and day in wondering eyes : 
 
 The children of the Saint that day, 
 
 Had mix'd in many a merry fray ; 
 
 For good St. Patrick's spirit lent 
 
 New vigour to his brother Saint, 
 
 While whiskey flow'd, and fiddlers play'd, 
 
 And mirth reign'd in the roofless shed ; 
 
 Full many a nymph and artful spark, 
 
 Peeping from forth their alleys dark, 
 
 Were seen, or might have been descried, 
 
 By those a little keener eyed 
 
 Than our good Doctor was, who now 
 
 On other objects bent his brow. 
 
 Our pious sage and true divine, 
 
 Who aye pursued a steady line, 
 
 Could ne'er behold a church or spire, 
 
 Without a feeling to admire 
 
 The venerable structures, where 
 
 Good things abound and sometimes prayer. 
 
 St. Giles's church now met his view, 
 
 And here within the fam'd purlieu, 
 
 He stopt to gaze and feed his sight, 
 
 With wondering and sincere delight, 
 
 Upon the edifice that stood, 
 
 Above the echoing sheds of wood ; 
 
IN LONDON. 55 
 
 That now resounded to the glee 
 
 Of Paddy's numerous family. 
 
 As thus our sage with eyes upturn'd, 
 
 And breast with hallow'd love that burn'd, 
 
 The sacred pile and clock survey'd, 
 
 A modest unassuming maid, 
 
 With cheeks yet of the rosy hue, 
 
 RecalPd to mortal things his view, 
 
 And thus bespoke the revVend sire : 
 
 THE FAIR SUPPLIANT. 
 
 I see, good sir, what you admire, 
 Is not of this dark sinful world, 
 Where innocence is often hurl'd 
 To deepest misery and woe, 
 For reasons which we do not know : 
 But if your heart be kind and good, 
 To sympathize in pity's mood, 
 Aa I may guess, (pray pardon me,) 
 You are, as pastors ought to be, 
 O save a hapless maiden, save 
 A father, mother, from the grave, 
 Who languish in yon humble shed, 
 Without or food or wholesome bed, 
 And I their daughter dear, compell'd, 
 Though long by modesty withheld, 
 To venture forth thus to impart 
 The feelings of a sorrowing heart, 
 In hope this simple tale of pain, 
 Will interest the mind humane. 
 
 Now, though our Doctor was as pure, 
 As any of the cloth demure ; 
 
56 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Nay, we might almost say as chaste, 
 
 As Rosinante, famous beast, 
 
 Yet had he still a heart and eye, 
 
 That felt a kindred sympathy, 
 
 For female beauty in distress, 
 
 And strove to make its sorrows less : 
 
 Thus, though his piety was known, 
 
 He was not altogether bone, 
 
 And feelingly he could discover, 
 
 As soon as any other lover, 
 
 A tight smart damsel's captivations, 
 
 Without the aid of illustrations, 
 
 From those who love the pleasing duties, 
 
 Of studying nature's living beauties ; 
 
 Else had he ne'er sigh'd forth his pain, 
 
 In Mrs. Syntax' tender chain. 
 
 SYNTAX. 
 
 My pretty maiden, dry that tear, 
 I grieve thy hapless tale to hear ; 
 My bounden duty is to spread, 
 Comfort around pale misery's head, 
 But happier should I be, my fair, 
 To give thee to a husband's care, 
 And render thee through future life, 
 An honest and a happy wife : 
 As Christian pastor I will go, 
 And try to soothe the pangs of woe ; 
 Rely on Him, who, my sweet dear, 
 From every eye, wipes every tear. 
 
 As thus our reverend Doctor went, 
 And sooth'd his " Fair false Penitent," 
 
IN LONDON. 57 
 
 You would have joy'd the smiles to see, 
 Which pass'd on every side with glee, 
 The jibes of youth, the sneers of age, 
 Pass'd copious on our reverend sage ; 
 Who neither knew or car'd what they, 
 Or all the world might of him say. 
 The wandering fair, whose panting breath, 
 Was mild, "but whose steps lead to death," 
 Knew all they meant, for vicious all, 
 Were those who thus around them bawl ; 
 Unto the Doctor soon she prov'd, 
 The pain and joy of being lov'd : 
 To one sweet youth, alas ! she'd given 
 Her only virtue under heaven ; 
 With falsehood's guise, unmanly art, 
 He triumph'd, and had broke her heart : 
 In summer's sweetest, smiling morn, 
 He left her sunk in gloom forlorn. 
 
 Arriv'd at this fair maid's abode, 
 Syntax bent low his heavy load 
 Of brains and wig, and enter'd in, 
 But soon he felt the scent of gin. 
 Almost his smelling sense was gone, 
 He seem'd a statue made of stone : 
 A sturdy, reeling, drunken gang, 
 Of bullying rogues in vulgar slang, 
 A most unlooked for welcome gave, 
 To him as good, as he was grave ; 
 While his fair guide, with treacherous flight, 
 Soon vanish'd from his wondering sight. 
 
 Once enter'd on corruption's seat, 
 A powerful force bars all retreat ; 
 
58 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And thus our Doctor, to his cost, 
 Now found, for almost hope was lost, 
 Midst such a crew, who round him press'd, 
 And hail'd with joy their reverend guest : 
 To consecrate their orgies base, 
 They tore from its exalted place, 
 That reverend wig, which now must pay, 
 The dues and forfeit of the day : 
 So saying instant in the flame, 
 Blaz'd up the Doctor's wig of fame, 
 And much the Muse regrets to say, 
 Even at this hour th' unrivall'd Play, 
 Meant to entrance a raptur'd world, 
 By impious hands had near been hurl'd 
 Into the dire consuming flame, 
 Whence rose in clouds the wig of fame, 
 While round and round on lightsome heel, 
 Our Doctor was compell'd to reel ; 
 Till by good luck he burst the door, 
 And ran pursued by loud uproar — 
 To where an open — hackney stage, 
 Secur'd him from the public rage. 
 The Doctor now drove off with smiles, 
 And curs'd the saint — we call St. Giles ; 
 Like Pallet from the Bastile 'scaping, 
 He left astonish'd crowds all gaping, 
 And homeward bade the coachman drive, 
 And thank'd his stars he was alive. 
 
 Though grievous was our Doctor's case, 
 As e'er befel a man of grace, 
 Yet from his haste to run, arose 
 A climax unto all his woes. 
 
H ! 
 
 & < 
 
 Q 
 
 H i 
 U I 
 
 © I 
 
 a: 
 
IN LONDON. 59 
 
 He now discover'rl with dismay 
 
 That he had lost his darling play ; 
 
 In the dire struggle to escape, 
 
 From that most real tragic scrape ; 
 
 For while their sticks rain'd showers of blows 
 
 Which dimm'd his eyes, and broke his nose; 
 
 Just as he'd gain'd once more a sight . 
 
 Of Mother Church his soul to light, 
 
 A pilferer who mark'd the page, 
 
 Stor'd in the pocket of the sage> 
 
 And its protruding edge mistook, 
 
 For some by far more precious book, 
 
 Contriv'd with most fraternal hug, 
 
 And cunning and convenient tug, 
 
 To rob the Doctor of his play, 
 
 And then to scamper safe away. 
 
 Now in disorder'd plight he enter'd, 
 The home where all his wishes center'd ; 
 And truly he with scarce a shirt on, 
 Who drew aside old Priam's curtain, 
 And told him gaping in amaze, 
 That half of Troy was in a blaze, 
 Look'd not more rueful than the sage, 
 Who had his lovely spouse t' engage, 
 The wrath of Mrs. Syntax' tongue, 
 That soon a pretty larum rung ; 
 Even in this strange and hapless plight, 
 He met his darling hope's delight. 
 She rag'd, she storm'd, and almost swore, 
 That he had willingly stept o'er 
 The bounds of virtue and decorum, 
 And mischief could not but come o'er him : 
 
60 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 " That fate he well deserv'd," she said, 
 
 " For list'ning to his ' pretty maid :' 
 
 " The jilt, if find her but she could, 
 
 " She'd tear her eyes out — that she would. 
 
 But what distress'd our Doctor most, 
 
 His tragedy, alas ! was lost. 
 
 He fear'd his footsteps to retrace, 
 
 And dar'd not seek the fatal place, 
 
 The scene of all his sad disgrace : 
 
 At length as wiser thoughts advis'd it, 
 
 He very gravely advertis'd it : 
 
 " Lost in a desperate affray, 
 
 " Appropriate scene, a tragic Play I 
 
 " Whoe'er to Doctor Syntax brings — 
 
 " This mixture of poetic things, 
 
 " Shall surely have that great reward 
 
 " Churchmen to laymen still afford, 
 
 " And as a passport unto heaven, 
 
 " His pray'rs will unto them be given." 
 
 Resolv'd the miscreants to enthral, 
 
 Who thus had robb'd him of his all ; 
 
 For all his hopes were on that play, 
 
 Which with his wig had pass'd away. 
 
 Lie there, Lord Chancellor Bacon said, 
 
 And threw the wig from off his head, 
 
 And Syntax thought — tho' late so big, 
 
 He'd lost his wisdom with his wig ; 
 
 And with this fact his mind imprest on, 
 
 At Mrs. Syntax's suggestion 
 
 To Bow-street he set forth to tell, 
 
 The dreadful loss which had befel : 
 
 With aspect mild and balded pate, 
 
 His case the Doctor did relate, 
 
 Unto the worthy magistrate, 
 
 I 
 
IN LONDON. 61 
 
 Who listen'd to his piteous case, 
 
 With affectation's pert grimace. 
 
 A warrant Syntax crav'd with awe, 
 
 As strong as Habeas Corpus law, 
 
 While ev'ery limb of law who saw him, 
 
 Wonder'd, agape, what here could draw him, 
 
 And every constable loud roar'd, 
 
 " Here's Doctor Syntax — by the Lord, 
 
 " The soul of satire, mirth, and glee, 
 
 " Make way!" — the passage open'd free, 
 
 " My fame is known," the Doctor cried, 
 
 As low he bow'd on every side ; 
 
 And louder laugh'd each Bow-street prig , 
 
 To see his sconce without a wig ; 
 
 Whilst Mrs. Syntax curtseying low, 
 
 Waddl'd, and sidl'd to, and fro, 
 
 Elated, that her husband's name, 
 
 Partook of London's bow-street fame : 
 
 " If he's known here — I can foretel. 
 
 " At court he'll soon be known as well, 
 
 " For 'tis a passport to such places, 
 
 " When you've at Bow -street shown your faces." 
 
 Thus said the lady, as they bow'd, 
 
 Before a special bench and crowd. 
 
 At length 'twas given to Vicary's care, 
 
 To ferret out the frail and fair, 
 
 And bring the ruffian gang to woe, 
 
 Who had abus'd our Doctor so. 
 
 To drive misfortune from his mind, 
 Our annotator on mankind, 
 Now thought he'd many a bon bouche find, 
 At that resort of fashion's throng. 
 Where Opera leads the dance and song, 
 
62 DOCTOK SYNTAX 
 
 And Music tunes her sweetest lyre, 
 To warm the heart with magic fire, 
 And noble lords and titled dames, 
 Indulge their taste, indulge their flames, 
 With music brought from foreign climes, 
 Ah, more immortal than my rhymes. 
 To see this splendid gay resort, 
 Of fools of fashion and of court, 
 He sued with modest curious leer, 
 His noble friend the gallant peer, 
 Who deign'd his anxious wish to hear, 
 But kindly bade him recollect, 
 His late mischance, and not neglect, 
 With reverend strictness to sustain, 
 Alike his pockets, purse, and brain ; 
 For genius, with an empty purse, 
 Is little but — a mental curse. 
 
 By interest and cogent means, 
 Behold him now behind the scenes. 
 First, Terpsichore in airy maze, 
 Attracts his never-ceasing gaze, 
 Unfolds upon his rapturous sight 
 The sylphic graces of her flight ; 
 In vestments light as morning beams 
 That play around the glittering streams, 
 When through the heavens Aurora flings 
 The odour of her downy wings, 
 She gaily leads him through the throng, 
 Of tragic worth and comic song. 
 His patron turns his thoughts aside, 
 By pointing out his destin'd bride ; 
 For now by custom of the age 
 Lords choose their ladies from the stage ; 
 
 \ 
 
IN LONDON. 63 
 
 A nymph who's pleasing, gentle sight, 
 
 Bespoke the rapture of that night, 
 
 When wedded love — at last reposes, 
 
 In peace upon a bed of roses. 
 
 Her limbs, in graceful moulds display 'd, 
 
 Canova's matchless forms pourtray'd ; 
 
 Perfection breath'd, as on she mov'd, 
 
 But to be look'd at, and be lov'd. 
 
 Canova never could inspire, 
 
 That spark of heaven's Promethean fire, 
 
 Which lighten'd from her glowing eyes, 
 
 And seem'd the day-beams of the skies. 
 
 Their soft blue languor mildly rose, 
 
 Mercy and love there found repose ; 
 
 And o'er her bosom soft and fair, 
 
 Her auburn ringlets wav'd in air, 
 
 While pure, and white, as Alpine snows, 
 
 Her sweet and swelling bosom rose : 
 
 But oh, that bosom, was as warm 
 
 As her's — who first had power to charm. 
 
 Syntax, by faith and truth impress'd 
 
 Religiously the peer address'd, 
 
 And pointed out his happy state, 
 
 To matrimony — bound by fate. 
 
 His patron smil'd, then press'd his hand, 
 
 And hied to join the sportive band. 
 
 What wonders Syntax' features spoke, 
 As on his vision splendid broke ; 
 The vast arena of the place, 
 Devoted to gay pleasure's race ! 
 There glittering stars and ribbons blue, 
 Bespoke the highly honour'd few, 
 
G4 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 While beauty in superb array, 
 Attir'd both elegant and gay, 
 Sublimely fill'd the sidelong rows, 
 With every flower that summer blows ; 
 The diamond tiara bright, 
 Gave added lustre to the light ; 
 The jewell'd circle that upholds 
 The pliant hair in graceful folds, 
 Or serves to wave the ostrich plume, 
 Majestic over youthful bloom; 
 To brilliant links ingenious strung, 
 That o'er the swelling bosom hung ; 
 The eastern ear-drop's cluster'd blaze, 
 Emerging in unnumbered rays ; 
 The bracelets of according charm, 
 That gird the neatly moulded arm ; 
 The valu'd gem that finger spann'd, 
 And sparkling deck'd the gentle hand ; 
 In harmonizing lustre shone, 
 And spangled beauty's magic zone. 
 The boxes shine in tinsell'd rows, 
 While classic subjects interpose ; 
 The fresco pencill'd— -all sublime 
 A twelvemonth mocks the power of time ; 
 While from above the chandelier, 
 In silv'ry radiance, bright and clear, 
 A central glory circling spreads, 
 Surpassing that which Cynthia sheds. 
 
 With rapture and delight our sage, 
 Next turn'd his eyes upon the stage ; 
 There spacious canvas, faithful gave, 
 The fluted columns' architrave, 
 
IN LONDON. 65 
 
 That once o'erspread the Grecian walls, 
 
 And still the classic taste recalls ; 
 
 Th' Italian landscape — public street, 
 
 The closet copied close and neat : 
 
 The foaming sea — the vessel's wreck, 
 
 By light'ning riv'n her yawning deck, 
 
 That loosen'd bilges on the shore, 
 
 Or founders and is seen no more : 
 
 The thunder's awful, solemn sound, 
 
 Reverberating far around, 
 
 As with surprize the mind they fill, 
 
 Bespeak the able artists' skill. 
 
 Amazement on our Doctor hung, 
 
 Who turning found himself among 
 
 A race of deities gay plum'd, 
 
 Who, heedless of the rank assum'd, 
 
 Tho' meant to grace the upper sphere, 
 
 Indulgently below appear. 
 
 Here Cupid with his wings outspread, 
 
 Cries out for tarts and gingerbread ; 
 
 There, dandy-like, Adonis seen is, 
 
 Bent o'er the chair of some frail Venus ; 
 
 And Jupiter with beer supplied, 
 
 Lays his nectareous cup aside. 
 
 Syntax with scrutinizing eye, 
 
 Oft-times call'd up a pious sigh : 
 
 Voluptuous couches plac'd around, 
 
 Bright mirrors verging from the ground ; 
 
 The vintage rich of foreign climes, 
 
 All mark the luxury of the times ; 
 
 Here nymphs more wanton than the breeze, 
 
 By affectation strove to please ; 
 
 The supple joints commanding raise, 
 
 To various fancied artful ways ; 
 
66 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 In amorous dalliance many stray'd, 
 While others in the Green- Room laid, 
 Reclining on the soft settee, 
 With robes that barely veil'd the knee ; 
 Yet still there lack'd the ecstacy, 
 Deriv'd from woman's modesty. 
 Euterpe next her triumph chose, 
 And strains in Lydian measures rose ; 
 So sweetly soft, so rich and wild, 
 His every sense entranc'd ! beguil'd ! 
 The dulcet swell, vibration shrill, 
 The lengthen'd cadence, dying still, 
 Conspir'd to elevate his soul, 
 And every other thought controul. 
 Elate with joy, in transport lost, 
 Awhile he stood, nor deem'd the cost 
 Superlative, be what it might, 
 That furnish'd so much pure delight ; 
 His common-place book forth he drew, 
 And noted down the thoughts that flew 
 In quick succession from his brain, 
 Prolific as the varied strain, 
 Which linger'd on his ravish'd ear, 
 Determin'd they should straight appear, 
 And all the pomp of learning bear : 
 In form critique his notions ran, 
 For he had gain'd from Logier's plan, 
 A rapid knowledge of the art 
 Of music in methodic part ; 
 The organ's symphony he'd join'd, 
 And sung in pray'r his grateful mind ; 
 Could also judge of Mozart's fame, 
 And all who bear a lofty name, 
 
} 
 
 IN LONDON. 67 
 
 Amongst the sons of minstrelsy, 
 
 Who tune the soul to mirth and glee. 
 
 Our Doctor bent with list'ning ear, 
 
 The soul enchanting strains to hear, 
 
 That flow'd from each fair warbler's tongue, 
 
 On which the cognoscenti hung 
 
 With ravish'd sense, and lavish'd praise — 
 
 Reviving seem'd his youthful days. 
 
 Entranc'd while thus the Doctor stood, 
 
 In pleasing and attentive mood, 
 
 A youthful syren, form'd to please, 
 
 With love's soft tone, and sportive ease, 
 
 As if from Cyprian bowers she came, 
 
 A Venus — all — except her name, 
 
 To light the ever glowing flame. 
 
 Whilst every one admiring gaz'd, 
 
 This song in praise of love she rais'd. 
 
 THE SONG OF LOVE. 
 
 Oh, it is sweet to obey Love's power, 
 
 When passion's in the eye, 
 When pleasure reigns in beauty's bower 
 
 Undarken'd by a sigh. 
 
 Oh', Love speaks in the sunny smile 
 That lights the heart to joy; 
 Its magic charms 
 Wake fond alarms, 
 And every pulse employ. 
 
 Around the couch where Love is laid, 
 
 A smiling garland twines ; 
 And o'er his path with roses spread 
 
 The star of pleasure shines. 
 
68 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Oh, honour's sweet to youthful breast, 
 When first its dazzling beams 
 
 Inspire his soul, and glory's crest 
 Upon his vision streams. 
 
 But where in life's the extacy, 
 Oh, what can match the bliss, 
 
 When love that beams in woman's eye,. 
 Is hallow'd by a kiss ! 
 
 Oh, fair is morn, 'mid her drops of dew r 
 But sweet, and still more dear, 
 
 Is the love that lights the eye of blue, 
 When gemm'd with rapture's tear. 
 
 Oh, what is so bright as the tear of love, 
 From trembling eyes of blue ? 
 
 No seraph drop from the heavens above 
 E'er shone with a lovelier hue. 
 
 Then where is the heart, 
 
 That would linger apart, 
 From the pleasures that love has in store ; 
 
 When beauty's smile, 
 
 Can the heart beguile, 
 And angels themselves adore ? 
 
 As thus with more than syren strain, 
 The enchantress Pleasure's votive train, 
 With sweetest warblings charm'd the ear, 
 And sportive groups now there, now here, 
 The twisting, twining waltz pursue, 
 And limbs and petticoats up flew; 
 
IN LONDON. 69 
 
 Awak'd to thought, our reverend sage 
 
 Pitied the morals of the age, 
 
 And all from Virtue's placid home, 
 
 That truant like were bent to roam*, 
 
 Where Pleasure lures to costly bowers, 
 
 With too infatuating powers : 
 
 He thought upon his own dear wife, 
 
 The mirror of connubial life ; 
 
 How vexed her watchful mind must be, 
 
 Debarr'd thus from his company ; 
 
 For since with wig and play he paid 
 
 So dearly for his pretty maid, 
 
 And stemm'd the battle a-la-Crib — 
 
 Within the hearing of his rib, 
 
 He scarce had dar'd from that sad day 
 
 To mention Opera or Play. 
 
 He felt his pockets o'er and o'er, 
 
 And found that all his precious store 
 
 Was yet within his purse contain'd ; 
 
 Then with a bow and smile well feign'd, 
 
 He left his friend, the amorous peer, 
 
 With the smart fille he lov'd so dear, 
 
 And bade adieu to all that go 
 
 On light fantastic heel or toe, 
 
 To Music's reign and Venus' bower, 
 
 And reach'd his house by midnight hour, 
 
 Where in enamour'd Morpheus' arms, 
 
 He found his own dear mistress' charms. 
 
 When Mrs. Syntax and the Sun 
 Op'd their bright eyes, she thus begun, 
 Observing that her spouse was taking 
 His wife, 'tween sleeping and awaking, 
 
70 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 For one of those bright nymphs he'd seen, 
 Stretch'd sweet behind the Opera screen. 
 " My dear, if you but knew th' alarms, 
 " I feel when you are from my arms 
 " Absent so long, I know not where, 
 " Mayhap with some inconstant fair, 
 " You would not leave your wife to moan, 
 " Late watching your return alone, 
 " As I last night was doom'd to do, 
 " Sitting till twelve o'clock for you — 
 " You would not, like some London rake, 
 " Thus day of night and night day make, 
 " Nor cause your wife the hours to number, 
 " In grief which all should give to slumber ; 
 " I hope last night you were pursuing, 
 " No road or game that leads to ruin." 
 
 Thus honest Syntax made reply, 
 " Be not afraid, my love, that I 
 " Will e'er again be caught in folly, 
 " Or slight my kind and faithful Dolly ; 
 " But, truth to tell, I did accord 
 " So far with fashion and my Lord, 
 " As at the Opera for a while, 
 " To listen and to lounge in style : 
 " I wish'd that time had but allow'd, 
 " My Dolly to have seen the crowd, 
 " And shewn her comely figure there, 
 " And heard each strange and foreign air ; 
 " But well I knew though not unkind, 
 " My Dolly has a moral mind, 
 " And rather, to myself I said, 
 " I'll take her to a Masquerade." 
 
IN LONDON. 71 
 
 " A Masquerade," with joy inflam'd, 
 Pleas'd Mrs. Syntax quick exclaim'd, 
 " I vow I'd like to see those places, 
 " Where people go to hide their faces, 
 " And deck them, be they what they will, 
 " With visages more monstrous still : 
 " Syntax, you owe me now a treat, 
 " And Fentum shall the work complete, 
 " Fentum, that with his horrid band, 
 " Of monsters frightens all the Strand." 
 
 " Agreed," quoth Syntax, " the first night, 
 " A mask is held, we shall not slight 
 " The opportunity of seeing 
 " Each horrid, each fantastic being, 
 " That veils the human face divine, 
 " And trips it light at folly's shrine." 
 Thus Syntax calmly, without strife, 
 Sooth'd into peace his dreaded wife, 
 Till breakfast turn'd with influence kind, 
 To other things her teeth and mind. 
 
 While thus their toast and tea they swallow'd, 
 The Doctor looking rather squalid, 
 Whene'er with retrospective ray 
 His memory ran on his lost play, 
 And all the glories of success 
 That promis'd his desert to bless, 
 Just as a curse both deep and long 
 Was forming on his pious tongue, 
 Enter'd the lovely servant maid, 
 And straight before the Doctor laid, 
 Address'd to him, a packet large, 
 With an unconscionable charge 
 
72 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 That made poor Mrs. Syntax stare, 
 
 And ask what d — 1 he'd got there ; 
 
 She said 'twould make her suffering purse 
 
 For many weeks, nay months, the worse ; 
 
 And Betty said, besides, the hard, 
 
 111 looking fellow, claim'd reward, 
 
 Who brought the packet to the door, 
 
 And whom she thought she'd seen before 
 
 Set firmly in the pillory — 
 
 " The place where now his ears should be," 
 
 Exclaim'd our agitated sage, 
 
 Near choak'd at once with joy and rage, 
 
 As the dear parcel he unroll'd, 
 
 And now again his eyes behold 
 
 The tragic page he so much priz'd, 
 
 Which he had lost and advertiz'd. 
 
 The very play which so much pains' 
 
 Had given to his troubled brains, 
 
 Was to his hands again restor'd, 
 
 And Syntax cried, " thanks to the Lord." 
 
 '* Thank whom you like," his wife exclaim'd, 
 
 With more than common rage inflam'd ; 
 
 " But I will give this thief direct, 
 
 " As good's a halter to his neck, 
 
 " The impudent and plundering villain, 
 
 " I'll give him not a single shilling." 
 
 With ireful haste she downward ran, 
 To wreak her vengeance on the man ; 
 But prudent he, so dire a fate, 
 Was not determin'd to await, 
 Soon as he heard the threat'ning noise, 
 Peal'd nearer from my lady's voice, 
 
IN LONDON. 73 
 
 He instant gave them all the double, 
 But took one spoon to pay his trouble, 
 From side-board stole, while Betty's back 
 Was turn'd to mind her mistress' clack. 
 
 We will not vainly here declare 
 The triumph of our happy pair, 
 The pride that our good madam felt, 
 At the strict justice she had dealt, 
 In fright'ning off this son of guilt, 
 Or the far purer joy that beam'd 
 In Syntax' eyes to see redeem'd 
 His tragic muse, his matchless piece, 
 That was to shame the wits of Greece. 
 You would have thought, to see his looks, 
 He'd scap'd from Bedlam or Saint Luke's. 
 Some say, but that I think's a riddle, 
 He danc'd like David with his fiddle ; 
 When forth before the ark the king 
 Was both inspir'd to dance and sing. 
 The lion has his pert jackal, 
 So have great wits as well as small ; 
 Homer his critics wanted not, 
 And Virgil scarcely has a blot, 
 That critic pens have not display'd, 
 And learning's faults much larger made. 
 It therefore was to be expected, 
 That Syntax would not be neglected, 
 If the effusions of his pen, 
 Should meet the eyes of learned men ; 
 As on this odd pccasion they, 
 In the bright pages of his play, 
 By chance did fortunately fall, 
 Under the critics' useful gall ; 
 
74 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 For with his piece the Doctor found, 
 
 Like critics' brains, a strange compound, 
 
 Of observations like the trash, 
 
 On Shakespear heap'd for sake of cash ; 
 
 And oft to other works appended, 
 
 By which, heavenknows,they're littlemended. 
 
 Thus run the friendly peroration, 
 Which Doctor thought a flagellation : 
 H In vain, rash bard, you take in hand 
 " The verse you do not understand ; 
 " No work demands more time and pains, 
 " And none suck approbation gains, 
 " As that which with a moisten'd eye 
 " Instructs the vulgar how to cry, 
 " That wields sublime the butchering knife, 
 " And knows to take or spare a life, 
 " To wrest the dagger ere it kill, 
 " Or on the ground the poison spill, 
 " Lay dying beauty on its bier, 
 " Yet bid her live another year ; 
 " Tisten to one, with brains thus busy, 
 " You run upon the comic hussey, 
 " Who smiles as you your scenes indite, 
 " And turns your grief to laughter quite. 
 " Indeed, good Doctor, you're to blame 
 " For hazarding your well-won fame 
 " In stage effect and tragic scenes, 
 " In spouting verse and dressing queensj 
 " And pluming fellows up so gaily 
 " That ought to string at the Old Bailey. 
 " Of tragedy, so great the task, 
 " A sermon does less study ask, 
 
IN LONDON. 75 
 
 <( For in the one the people mute, 
 
 " Must swallow all without dispute ; 
 
 " But where the spouting actors reel, 
 
 " Folks speakyouknow with hands and heel ; 
 
 " In vain with learned pride you boast, 
 
 " Of voyages to Latium's coast, 
 
 " And strict adherence to the rules, 
 
 " That govern'd the Grecian schools. 
 
 " The Muses in their ancient vest 
 
 " Were all but savages at best ; 
 
 " Learning is mad with ancient pride, 
 
 " That thinks eyes to the rest denied ; 
 
 " The world is not to be humbugg'd 
 
 " As 'twas of old, or tamely drugg'd 
 
 " To sleep or death by tragic ditties, 
 
 " Got up by fools or Sub-Committees ; 
 
 " John Bull loves farces ; try that line, 
 
 " 'Tis there your Pegasus will shine, 
 
 " If you but mount in trim array 
 
 " Amid the Hobbies of the day : 
 
 " Or Syntax in a melo-drame, 
 
 " Would set the raptur'd town in flame, 
 
 " And more convulse with merry fit 
 
 " The boxes, gallery, and pit, 
 
 " Than Mother Goose, or great Munchausen, 
 
 " Or any opera in fashion." 
 
 The Doctor thought as authors do 
 Of critics who their works review, 
 And don't exactly coincide 
 'With the fond dictates of their pride, 
 That he who thus presum'd to speak 
 In most impertinent critique 
 
76 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Of his immortal tragic lay, 
 
 Must be the sire of some^damn'd play, 
 
 Who for the want of fortune's smiles 
 
 Had taken refuge near St. Giles. 
 
 Far from discourag'd by his spleen, 
 
 Our Doctor proudly view'd each scene, 
 
 And after scanning them all o'er, 
 
 Resolv'd to try them as before, 
 
 At the prime seat of judgment, where 
 
 Sits in his dictatorial chair, 
 
 The easy well fed manager. 
 
 But first especial care he took, 
 That no base thief by hook or crook, 
 Should rob him of his play again, 
 And mar his heart's triumphant strain : 
 So firm with belts and cords around, 
 His work he to his body bound, 
 Like those who trade in precious ware, 
 The rogues in lace, or cunning fair, 
 Who thus expect to 'scape the duty, . 
 By privilege of rank or beauty ; 
 Or soldier, not to danger blind, 
 Who claps his cuirass behind, 
 Well studying, ere the day is done, 
 It may be valour's part to run. 
 Thus lac'd and fitted for the fray, 
 Forth sallied Syntax with his play, 
 Humming a chorus from his strain. 
 He took the road to Drury-Lane. 
 
 Safely he pass'd without a wound 
 Amid the beauties that surround 
 
IN LONDON. 77 
 
 The pile which scenic muses prop 
 
 High over many a broker's shop, 
 
 And bower of courtezan, and Jew 
 
 Dealing in things not over new. 
 
 He reach'd the edifice sublime, 
 
 And enter'd — at rehearsal time, 
 
 His name announc'd — his name was great — 
 
 But still he had a while to wait — 
 
 The manager was greater still, 
 
 And Syntax had to wait his will, 
 
 Though bearing thus his great production 
 
 And a right noble introduction ; 
 
 Nay, our great genius had to stand 
 
 Obediently with hat in hand, 
 
 Until the whole dramatic corps 
 
 Their sev'ral parts recited o'er ; 
 
 While round the buzzing Green Room ran, 
 
 A rumour that the learned man 
 
 Had brought to the dramatic stage 
 
 A piece unequall'd by the age, 
 
 Wherein with splendour all its own, 
 
 The Syntax' genius brilliant shone. 
 
 Meantime it happen'd, luckier still, 
 
 To add to his theatric skill, 
 
 A Drama of whose beauties new, 
 
 Green Room report its trumpet blew, 
 
 Was just about to see the light, 
 
 And Doctor witness'd with delight 
 
 The way in which the embryo wonder 
 
 From actor's mouth obtain'd its thunder. 
 
 There in his chair of ease and state, 
 
 The manager, like Falstaff sate, 
 
 Surrounded by his famous squad, 
 
 Spouting blank verse as they were mad, 
 
78 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Turn'd players for bread, and now preparing 
 To set the pit and gods a staring. 
 Here Brutus with his night-cap on, 
 Condemn'd to death his rebel son ; 
 There lies Lucretia, neither dead 
 Nor wedded to her lonely bed, , 
 
 But full before th' enamour'd view 
 Laughing at Tarquin's want of cue. 
 While fretting stood th' immortal Bays, 
 Of these our most enlighten'd days, 
 To see the way the actors treated, 
 The speeches over which he'd sweated, 
 You would have smil'd to witness thei-e, 
 The writhings of each labouring player ; 
 Who curs'd the author's want of brains, 
 Lacking the necessary pains, 
 Because like tailor he had not 
 Ta'en measure of his mental coat, 
 And shap'd each scene and part refin'd, 
 To standard of the actor's mind ; 
 Likethose who dock'd of limbs and head, 
 Were fated on Procrustes' bed, 
 In torturing agony to feel, 
 The lopping of inhuman steel. 
 Our Doctor mark'd with dread and wonder, 
 Thus rhyme and reason torn asunder ; 
 Unknowing what the fate might be. 
 Of his own darling tragedy. 
 
 END OF THE THIRD CANTO. 
 
IN LONDON. 
 
 CANTO IV. 
 
 What obstacles beset his way, 
 Who, fir'd by glory writes a play ! 
 A play, beheld with joy or spite, 
 Which all can judge, and few can write. 
 Fame's other hundred doors stand ope 
 To patient Genius' towering hope, 
 But triple-headed Cerberus-guards, 
 Bar out the works of classic bards 
 From the few domes that bear the name, 
 Of inlets to dramatic fame, 
 While dwarfs in wit and Vandals rage, 
 And reptiles creep upon the stage. 
 Some reach with ease the bright abode, 
 By mounting in ethereal Ode, 
 Or on some huge long Epopee, 
 Or dying in an Elegy ; 
 Or Song that fills his hand with posies, 
 Gleaning the lilies and the roses. 
 One works his way with Satire's file, 
 With cat like claw and spiteful smile ; 
 Another smoothly skims away 
 Upon a blameless Pastoral lay ; 
 But he who dares with venturous hand 
 The Tragic war-horse to command, 
 
QC : DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Bestrides an animal uncivil, 
 May plunge him headlong to the d — 1 : 
 These truths we now proceed to tell, 
 Our learned author felt too well. 
 
 The business of rehearsal o'er, 
 And players " free to sin no more," 
 Till night " her sable curtain drew," 
 And gas-light show'd her ghosts anew, 
 Syntax, as with an air he bow'd, 
 His play and his credentials show'd, 
 To the great ruler of the stage, 
 Who scann'd the epistolary page, 
 And thus our learned sage address'd 
 " Your name, great Syntax, is impress'd, 
 " On fame's bright book, and here might stand 
 " Like some Colossus to command 
 " The admiration of the crowd 
 " Who hither come with clamour loud 
 " To fix the fate of plays and players ; 
 " But — I must tell you all my cares — 
 " In spite of all the pomp you see 
 " Of proud theatric majesty, 
 " Stalking amid this empty dome, 
 " Where taste and thousands used to come-, 
 " We subs, and even the mighty Sub, 
 " Must now our humble noses snub, 
 " (I grieve to tell, but it is true) 
 " To one who plays and dictates too. 
 " With your permission, Sir, your play, 
 " Before this actor I will lay ; 
 " As he is pleas'd, or flatt'ring cramm'd, 
 "' It may succeed, or, may be damn'd. 
 
IN LONDON. 81 
 
 Our Doctor's eyes in wonder roll'd, 
 To hear the manager unfold, 
 How genius' wings were cramp'd, and plays 
 Were judg'd of in these modern days, 
 Alike the buskins and the socks, 
 Set in the tyrant-actor's stocks ; 
 And even immortal Shakespeare's page, 
 Delight and glory of the age, 
 Cut down, and alter'd, and design'd, 
 To suit a player's vulgar mind. 
 Indignant were the words that broke 
 From Syntax, as the sage thus spoke : 
 " What, is it thus, that from her height, 
 " Of raptur'd fancy's glorious flight, 
 " The muse must stoop, and take the law, 
 " From those who should her chariot draw ; 
 " Or on her high triumphant state, 
 " Like menial trumpeters should wait ? 
 " The empty instruments of sound, 
 " That with the voice of sense abound, 
 " Just as their mouths their thoughts convey 
 " Of other minds, more learn'd than they ; 
 " As organ pipes, though oft confin'd, 
 " Express the great composer's mind ? 
 " Time was, when Garrick rul'd the stage, 
 " A player might have scann'd the page, 
 " Of half-vers'd bard, or drama new, 
 " And haply understood it too ; 
 " But in these days, the player's head 
 " Resembles more a pipe of lead, 
 " Through which, in vain, the purer air 
 " Struggles with brains of awkward player, 
 " And sounds, if thus at all it passes, 
 " Not like the voice of men but asses ; 
 
 M 
 
82 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 " While he, who thinks his part he plays, 
 
 " To all the world but only brays. 
 
 " Would those who lov'd the true sublime, 
 
 " Great Eschylus of deathless rhyme, 
 
 " Terence or Sophocles, have borne, 
 
 " Thus to be fritter'd down, and shorn, 
 
 " To suit the strut, the start, the stare, 
 
 " And the pert mouthings of a player ? 
 
 " Dull and evaporate quite, had been 
 
 " The soul that fram'd each daring scene, 
 
 " Whose power yet bids the bosom move, 
 
 " To melting sympathy or love. 
 
 " Had those whom genius ne'er refin'd, 
 
 " To estimate the glowing mind, 
 
 " Sat in the judgment-seat of taste, 
 
 " And damn'd, with inconsiderate haste, 
 
 " By rage, or ignorance, inspir'd, 
 
 " What untold ages have admir'd, 
 
 " What gothic darkness in our age, 
 
 " Had with thick clouds obscur'd the stage ! 
 
 " The muse had ceas'd her light to shed, 
 
 " Nor learning risen from the dead. 
 
 " And the poor plaudits of the hour, 
 
 " Or joys that rise from lucre's power, 
 
 " And not the lasting meed of fame, 
 
 " Been all our matchless Shakespeare's aim, 
 
 " Would that immortal bard have writ, 
 
 " So finely to a sixpenny pit.* 
 
 * In the time of Shakespeare, the prices of admis- 
 sion to the Theatres, was to the boxes, one shilling ; 
 to the pit, sixpence ; and to the gallery, two-pence. 
 
IN LONDON. 83 
 
 " Or gallery, whose purchas'd boast 
 
 " Was humble two-pence, at the most ? 
 
 " How had Racine, Corneille, Voltaire, 
 
 " Lash'd into verse the coxcomb player, 
 
 " Who should have dar'd, in lack of wit, 
 
 " O'er them in judgment high, to sit ; 
 
 e< And thus exclude or strive to mend 
 
 " Works he's unfit to comprehend, 
 
 " Or only able to rehearse 
 
 " In his own mutilated verse ? 
 
 " But, Sir, I leave my piece for you 
 
 " In proper manner to review ; 
 
 " And hope you'll find it worth displaying, 
 
 " 'Bove many a piece that now is playing." 
 
 Thus, our great sage, to truth inclin'd, 
 Deliver'd both his piece and mind : 
 While the astonish'd manager 
 Began to think, with wondering stare, 
 That starting from his musty shelf 
 He saw Euripides himself, 
 And all the host of ancient sages 
 Rising from forth the dust of ages, 
 To fulminate against " the deep 
 " Damnation" of ignoble sleep ; 
 And blame the management that gave 
 Their beauties to the dusty grave, 
 Where rest in many a mouldering pile, 
 Those who could melt or prompt to smile, 
 Beside the damn'd of every age 
 That ne'er again shall see the stage, 
 The brains of authors that have gone 
 Down to the shades of Acheron, 
 
84 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And never shall again rejoice 
 
 To hear the murmuring prompter's voice. 
 
 The ruler of the mimic scene 
 
 Ev'n thought that Syntax must have been 
 
 Bred in the school of Grecian lore, — 
 
 He had not seen his like before ; 
 
 And own'd his piece must be a play 
 
 Worthy of a more glorious day. 
 
 But though we now, degenerate quite, 
 
 Industriously devote the night 
 
 To triumphs of the scenic art, 
 
 And what should win the eye and heart, 
 
 The learned Syntax yet might reap 
 
 A lasting wreath from others' sleep ; 
 
 His tragedy he would inspect, 
 
 And carefully would not neglect, 
 
 If it should seem to suit them strictly, 
 
 To put it in rehearsal quickly. 
 
 Our Doctor, as you may conceive, 
 With this assurance took his leave. 
 And home l'eturn'd, to spouse, to say 
 How he'd dispos'd of his lov'd play : 
 The pit's applause, the gallery's cheers, 
 Already sounding in his ears, 
 And the gay garland that adorns, 
 Like a less pleasing crown of horns, 
 Poetic brows, with many a sprig, 
 Waving above his classic wig. 
 
 He told his kind connubial dear, 
 How near to fame, to fortune near, 
 He happily again was plac'd, 
 By his ability and taste, 
 
IN LONDON. 85 
 
 And vow'd that should success but crown 
 His hopes, they'd come and live in town : 
 And like the heads of mother church, 
 Leave parish-followers in the lurch, 
 To find their way to benediction, 
 By some poor curate's kind direction. 
 In short, in some great splendid square, 
 They'd breathe more fashionable air ; 
 Give breakfasts to the wits that need them, 
 And like the great, as little heed them. 
 
 " And routs, and balls, and parties too, 
 " That play at pharo, and at loo ;" 
 Cried Mrs. Syntax, glad to find 
 Her spouse in fashionable mind. 
 " Syntax ! I wish that time was come, 
 " When we should sit no more hum-drum, 
 " At gloomy parsonage retir'd, 
 " Mid rocks and lakes, by none admir'd, 
 " But country folks who ne'er set eyes on, 
 " Enchanting fashion's bright horizon ; 
 " Who ne'er like us breath'd London air, 
 " Or heard Bow-bells, or saw a square : 
 u I long to tread the splendid maze 
 " Of the gay world, where rank displays 
 " Its power, its grandeur, and its grace, 
 " And mix in every brilliant place ; 
 " Let's show a proper disposition, 
 " Like other people of condition. 
 " Now, my dear Syntax, let me tell ye, 
 " In case your treacherous memory fail ye, 
 " You vow'd when last I was upbraiding, 
 " You'd take me soon a masquerading. 
 
86 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 " I claim, now that the moment come is, 
 
 " The strict performance of your promise ; 
 
 " I find, my dear, with much delight, 
 
 " A masque take places this very night, 
 
 " At the King's Theatre, you know, 
 
 " Where masques and opera singers go ; 
 
 " Think, Syntax ! think how great we'll be, 
 
 " What honour and what extacy, 
 
 " When flaunting there in gay parade, 
 
 " We frolic at the masquerade ! 
 
 " Talking with easy, unsnubb'd looks, 
 
 " To lords and duchesses and dukes!" 
 
 A kind and loving wife's request, 
 Thus warm and tenderly express'd, 
 No heart like Syntax could deny. 
 Beating with expectation high, 
 He therefore instant gave consent, 
 Seeing how madam's mind was bent, 
 To this her warm desire, to see 
 The world of fashion, gay, and free, 
 Moving in the grotesque parade, 
 Of a strange, motley masquerade. 
 Tickets were out in hundreds round, 
 No difficulty could be found, 
 The matron said, with aspect proud, 
 For such as they to join the crowd ; 
 But seeing was not quite sufficient, 
 Our madam thought herself proficient, 
 In airs polite enough already, 
 To figure as a first-rate lady, 
 And even a character sustain, 
 For wit amid the sportive train. 
 
IN LONDON. 87 
 
 A domino, or black or blue, 
 
 She thought was scarcely worth the view, 
 
 And gave no room for wit to play 
 
 Its sport in eloquent display : 
 
 She wish'd where'er 'twas in her reach, 
 
 To have the liberty of speech, 
 
 And thought with this advantage aiding, 
 
 She'd find out who were masquerading. 
 
 Besides, 'twas known she lov'd to tease, 
 
 Her tongue was seldom bent to please : 
 
 At least this often seem'd th' opinion 
 
 Of him, who felt her stern dominion. 
 
 The sage so learned in every kind 
 Of lore, could not be left behind 
 His wife in fancy or in spirit, 
 To manifest his various merit. 
 Beneath the visor of a mask, 
 What could he not declare or ask ? 
 What lessons of instruction teach, 
 To those who love not them that preach ? 
 A mask, convenient covering, hail ; 
 A shield to truth and virtue frail. 
 Some wear it as we use a friend ; 
 Some never doff it till the end : 
 So fraught with fallacy's the strife 
 Of the strange masquerade of life. 
 
 Revolving in his studious mind, 
 What character with learning join'd, 
 He should assume to awe the place, 
 With proper gravity of face, 
 And keep, should prying eyes be near, 
 His reverend reputation clear ; 
 
88 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 As churchmen bent on pleasure should, 
 
 And ladies, though they wear the hood ; 
 
 A lucky thought our sage's brain, 
 
 Began at length to entertain ; 
 
 Some might suppose, and some had said, 
 
 (At least good madam oft had paid, 
 
 This compliment to Syntax' head ;) 
 
 He was no conjuror in the ways, 
 
 The busy artful world displays, 
 
 The schemes, the shifts, the endless tricks, 
 
 Practis'd alert where mankind mix, 
 
 In the great scramble, noisy, vain, 
 
 That for the cheating phantom Gain. 
 
 Like the sly rogues who steal and hustle, 
 
 Whelms all in one tumultuous bustle. 
 
 To shew how much they err'd who took, 
 His character from his grave look, 
 Our Doctor vow'd that without fear, 
 He would a Conjuror appear, 
 And at the masquerade impart, 
 A sample of his wondrous art. 
 
 Thus fix'd the parts they should assume, 
 Sweet smiling joy began t' illume 
 The countenances of our pair, 
 Who now began to turn their care, 
 To " dressing for the character." 
 'Twas now that Mrs. Syntax show'd, 
 How much she knew and mark'd abroad, 
 How much she studied in all places, 
 The odd variety of faces, 
 And all the things one sauntering meets, 
 Claiming regard in London streets ; 
 
 \ 
 
IN LONDON. 89 
 
 And let no man or woman say, 
 
 As through the Strand they take their way, 
 
 Gazing on windows, or shop portals, 
 
 How many things are here that mortals 
 
 Require not in this needy life, 
 
 But made for folly or for strife ! 
 
 Legs, noses, faces, may be wanted, 
 
 And all but brains for money granted. 
 
 She thought on Fentum's in a trice, 
 
 Where fashion pays gay folly's price, 
 
 In robes fantastical to seem, 
 
 Still more in ridicule's extreme, 
 
 And plastic art such features feigns, 
 
 As sportive nature even disdains. 
 
 To Fentum's then, our lady fair 
 Declar'd they instant should repair, 
 To suit their frolic fancies right, 
 And chuse their dresses for the night. 
 Think not, ye gay and beauteous belles, 
 The Muse a fibbing story tells : 
 Or that our lady's store of satin 
 The moths or poverty had let in ; 
 At Somerden she well could boast, 
 As rich a set to Syntax' cost, 
 Of white andtrimm'd,and pinks,and flowers, 
 As ever deck'd a parson's bowers ; 
 But though her wardrobe was not scant, 
 Are there not things that ladies want 
 When runs the gay and swimming head 
 On ball-room and on masquerade, 
 And fashion, deck'd in jewels fine, 
 Leads her gay votaries to her shrine, 
 
90 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And waves her feather cinctured plume 
 
 O'er the light train and wreathed room ? 
 
 Fair was the bloom of madam's cheek, 
 
 You'd seen the tints of beauty break, 
 
 All in the red and rosy grain 
 
 Of chimney pot just after rain. 
 
 As health indulgent spirits lent, 
 
 She did not stand in need of paint ; 
 
 But still the necessary care 
 
 Of masque and kind man-milliner 
 
 Were requisite to tip her off, 
 
 Lest prying sneering fools should scoff. 
 
 Our Doctor's dress and apparatus 
 Were the more difficult hiatus : 
 A cap and gown, and magic wand, 
 And spells must be at his command ; 
 But these and more, he doubted not, 
 At Fentum's medley could be got. 
 A coach was call'd, a coach soon came, 
 And madam and our man of fame, 
 Enter'd, and gave the word to drive 
 I ween, where any man alive 
 Would lift his eyes in strange surprize 
 To see how folks themselves disguise, 
 Distorting every human feature, 
 As if they were asham'd of nature. 
 They reach'd the gay repository ,- 
 And found good Fentum in his glory ; 
 For by the crowd, the blaze, the fun, 
 You'd thought the racket was begun. 
 Like those who nought but trouble give, 
 Nor think that shop-keepers must live ; 
 
IN LONDON. 91 
 
 With many questions, la's ! and bless us ! 
 They tumbled o'er pom- Fentum's dresses, 
 Till they habiliments could find, 
 To suit their characters and mind. 
 
 At length our lady made her choice, 
 And spoke it with a pleasant voice, 
 Array'd like fashion's beauteous train, 
 She'd make her conquests o'er again. 
 In birth-day suit of good Queen Anne, 
 She'd boldly triumph over man. 
 The age of hoops she wisely chose, 
 Because there was, beneath her nose, 
 A pretty large rotundity, 
 Of grave and matronly profundity : 
 But still the belle she strove to ape 
 In flowing tassels and in crape. 
 The beauties of her own dear face 
 She kindly hid beneath the grace 
 Of a Diana, fair and chaste, 
 That, certes, had not such a waist, 
 Unless Endymion led the maid 
 At his wild moonlight masquerade. 
 As was the custom in those days 
 When transformations strange took place, 
 A dance that, like our maids in crape, 
 Soon after may have chang'd her shape. 
 
 This was the dress our figurante, 
 To Mister Fentum said she'd want, 
 And o'er her masque she chose a plume, 
 That would have done to sweep the room ; 
 You'd thought had you not seen her clearly, 
 She was a walking Ostrich nearly ; 
 
92 DOCTOK SYNTAX 
 
 Next in his magical array, 
 Syntax the conjuror grave, yet gay, 
 In sport resign'd his hat and wig, 
 And stalking like Pomposo, big 
 With secrets that the stars impart, 
 To those who know the occult art ; 
 In robe of seemly sable then, 
 Behold the gravest far of men ; 
 With magic signs and powerful wand, 
 And imps and planets at command, 
 And on his head a cap or cowl, 
 On which sits perch'd a sapient owl. 
 
 At proper time, in garnish'd state, 
 That is, being fashionably late, 
 Though madam's heart was bounding high, 
 To shew her borrow'd finery ; 
 Our happy pair, as if in love, 
 To the Haymarket rapid drove ; 
 He a grave cunning conjuror grown, 
 And she a lady of the ton ; 
 " Room," cried the gazers, like to burst, 
 " For Doctor Zabulus the first." 
 The adept whom good St. Cyprian says, 
 Rivall'd the d — 1 in ancient days ; 
 He was indeed a wondrous wight, 
 And skill'd in Zoroastrian light ; 
 As sacred histories record, 
 He could for instance at a word, 
 Create a man out of the air, 
 By shaking wild his coal black hair ; 
 Could turn himself to sheep or goat, 
 Or, if you would, leap down your throat ; 
 
IN LONDON. 93 
 
 Nay, on a time to please the crowd 
 Who gap'd and rail'd with clamour loud 
 At fair Silene,* frail as fair, 
 Who just to breathe a little air, 
 Leant from the castle window high, 
 Like Jezebel when bent to spy 
 The gathering storm that was a brewing, 
 And hurl'd her beauty to its ruin, 
 'Tis said this Doctor with his art, 
 Made the poor courtezan so smart, 
 Appear in her loose morning gown 
 At every window of the town : 
 And then, as from the castle wall, 
 As quick from every window fall. 
 But to attend our matchless pair, 
 Who now had reach'd the theatre. 
 The Zabulus of modern days, 
 Led in amidst the splendid blaze 
 Of chandeliers and beauteous eyes, 
 His own dear rib of comely size ; 
 
 * Heathen writers have ascribed the invention of magic 
 to Mercury. Some of the early Christians, who have 
 wrote on the subject, speak of Zabulus as the first magi- 
 cian; but this is only another name for Diabulus himself, 
 and is so used by St. Cyprian. Some give the invention 
 to Barnabas, a magician of Cyprus ; but who this Barna- 
 bas was, and in what time he lived, they have not shewn, 
 though they have taken much unnecessary pains to prove 
 he was not Barnabas the coadjutor of the Apostle St. 
 Paul. Our reverend Doctor seems to have held the more 
 extenuating opinion which many pious and learned 
 men had entertained in regard to the origin of art; 
 namely, its doctrines are derived from the angel who 
 accompanied Tobit, and revealed them to him on the 
 way. These doctrines they contend are contained in 
 
94 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And " Doctor Zabulus and lady" 
 Resounded through the crowd already. 
 
 The music of the sweet Soiree 
 Was ringing forth its melody, 
 Tuning midst pleasure's rich perfume 
 The echoes of the concert room ; 
 Where Art op'd Taste's fair temples wide 
 In drawing-room's majestic pride, 
 And fairy grotipes prepared the ball 
 To crowds en masque fantastical. 
 
 If thou art of the happy set 
 Who know the rules of etiquette, 
 And hast by partial fortune's aid 
 At birth-day ball or masquerade 
 Beheld the crowds that throng the floor, 
 Skill'd in gay dissipation's lore, 
 And seen their heads, in odd compound, 
 And giddy circle, swimming round, 
 
 certain books written by Honorius, Albertus Magnus, Cy- 
 prian, and others. Tostatus thinks that Jezebel, who 
 enchanted Ahab, was the first who practised the art of 
 charming princes out of their natural senses; but Tosta- 
 tus may not have known the extent of female sorcery : if 
 Jezebel was the first that practised this treasonable and 
 hurtful art, it is unfortunate that she was not also the last. 
 The feat of tumbling down poor Silene from the window, 
 here alluded to, is told of Simon the magician, whom Philip 
 converted in Samaria. It states that a famous courtezan 
 of this name was looking out of a window of a certain 
 castle, and a great crowd had collected to gaze at her, he 
 caused her to appear at every window in the castle at one 
 and the same time, and to fall down from every one of 
 them. We mean no reflection on the ladies of the city 
 
IN LONDON. 95 
 
 Strange, yet politely complaisant, 
 And fashionably ignorant, 
 You may conceive a slender notion 
 Of the gay revel and the motion 
 Which now to Syntax and his wife 
 Shew'd fashion's follies to the life. - 
 Wide was the range, and bright the show 
 Of sportive bands that lightly go 
 On happy foot and bounding toe. 
 The pit made level with the stage 
 Gave ample circle to engage 
 In minuet or country dance, 
 Or waltz, or gay quadrille from France, 
 Or stroll, or lounge to show condition 
 In staring, quizzing inquisition ; 
 While brilliant o'er the great Saloon 
 The light of joy like that of noon, 
 Strove to remove the gay disguise, 
 And guide their steps and ravish'd eyes. 
 
 Fashion's an ignis fataus jade, 
 Though a good friend to fools and trade ; 
 She, skill'd to win the female heart 
 With flatt'ring and resistless art, 
 Leads her gay votaries many a dance 
 O'er life's and folly's broad expanse : 
 The old, the young, the wise, the fool, 
 Obey her arbitrary rule ; 
 
 wherever it may be supposed to have taken place, by- 
 making the magician's power extend to causing the frail 
 fair one by way of punishment, to appear .at every win- 
 dow in the town, and to tumble down, streaming like a 
 theatrical waterfall from every one of them ! 
 
96 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 From step to step she leads them on, 
 Till half are mad, or half undone. 
 
 A gallant youth had op'd the ball 
 With a young Eve that seem'd to call 
 The warm desires in every eye, 
 She moved so gay and gracefully, 
 And seem'd, so thin her robe's display, 
 In Paradisical array ! 
 
 'Twas " who are they," from every madam, 
 " The youthful Eve and sportive Adam ?" 
 While envious whispers told their story 
 Not in the words of blameless glory, 
 Twas sprightly Fulvia who despises 
 The rigid ties that Hymen prizes, 
 And brave Sir John, whose triumphs lie 
 In the small space of lady's eye. 
 Next came among the jiggers gaily, 
 Lord Totterdown, who, people tell ye, 
 Just frolics 'mid the lovely throng 
 To catch the sweet breath of the young ; 
 Roving to meet, like some gay Paris, 
 The sweet helitus puellaris. 
 He moves, at seventy-two he moves, 
 Amid the Graces and the Loves, 
 To catch from blooming Hebe's breath, 
 A respite from relentless death ! 
 Ah ! happy lord ! oh, peer belov'd ! 
 An orange girl his suit approv'd, 
 From whom his tender soul inhales, 
 The breath of all Hesperia's vales, 
 Mix'd with perhaps, a slight drawback, 
 A little harmless coniac, 
 
IN LONDON. 9T 
 
 That sometimes lends to cheeks and noses 
 What they would want without it, roses. 
 
 And now in light chausee they trip it — 
 Each goddess lays aside her tippit, 
 Pleas'd in the gambols to engage 
 And shake the snow from hoary age, 
 Nor cares for fashion's, custom's screen, 
 That bids alone the foot be seen : 
 So much you see, so much you know, 
 Fancy has no illusions now. 
 Our Doctor of the magic wand, 
 Blest with his feather'd queen's fair hand, 
 Sought not in amorous mood to prance 
 With even the fairest in the dance ; 
 But madam long'd, no danger heeding, 
 To shew her elevated breeding, 
 To prove to every courtly fair, 
 She was no interloper there. 
 She fondly thought that she had yet 
 A talent for a minuet ; 
 In short, she wish'd it to be seen 
 She was no vulgar warehouse queen. 
 But where was the intrepid beau 
 That through the dance with her would go ? 
 Bold sure would be the character 
 Would walk a minuet with her. 
 It chanc'd howe'er she caught the view 
 Of the fam'd good Lord Doodledo, 
 Who in his fashionable duty 
 Preferr'd rotundity of beauty. 
 The peer approach'd with air of quality, 
 And in his courtly prodigality, 
 
98 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Bow'd to our lady of the ton, 
 
 As if he had her la'yship known, 
 
 While curt'sying low, our flutt'ring fair, 
 
 Acknowledg'd with triumphant air, 
 
 The honour to her beauty paid, 
 
 And forth my lord his fair one led 
 
 To walk, to swim the floor, to set 
 
 And figure in a minuet. 
 
 Our Doctor saw his rib advance 
 
 To mingle in the festive dance, 
 
 Without one pang of jealous fear 
 
 For her his bosom lov'd so dear. 
 
 He did not scorn a virtuous life, 
 
 Yet seek to find it in his wife, 
 
 Nor thought, like many a hect'ring bully, 
 
 Another's crimes his wreaths could sully. 
 
 If madam's fall was now decreed, 
 
 The stars must be in fault indeed. 
 
 Meantime the hoop'd and plumed fair 
 
 Who thus so little " caus'd his care," 
 
 Stood up, and at the music's sound 
 
 Set off upon her airy round, 
 
 And gaily waddled through the dance, 
 
 As if her heels had come from France. 
 
 Full stately mov'd our favour'd fair 
 With arms that float upon the air, 
 Graceful as when a porpoise moves 
 Towards the finny fair he loves ; 
 O'er her warm cheek and bosom too 
 I ween, was spread a purple hue, 
 While as she won her easy way 
 Somewhat like rolling stack of hay, 
 
. IN LONDON. 99 
 
 Where'er she mov'd, where'er she drew 
 
 The gaze on her and Doodledo, 
 
 A smile and titt'ring buz went round, 
 
 Which madam took for the blest sound 
 
 Of envy or of admiration 
 
 To see her happy, high flirtation, 
 
 With one of noble birth, and how 
 
 She taught them graceful airs to know. 
 
 But odd mischances will befal 
 Fair ladies even amidst the ball ; 
 And time has been nor wife nor maid, 
 Could tread the mazy masquerade, 
 Without the danger of some slips 
 More than are made by lady's lips. 
 While madam spread her elbows out, 
 And threw her petticoats about, 
 Shewing right truly that false steps 
 Are only made by demireps, 
 Some imp that lov'd to punish pride, 
 Which our great sorcerer had not tied, 
 With mischief fraught, had deign'd to stoop 
 To loose the stay of madam's hoop, 
 And down it fell, oh sad mischance, 
 Amidst the proud and stately dance, 
 And our gay lady of the ton 
 Tripp'd as full many else have done. 
 But as she fell she wisely threw 
 Her arms about poor Doodledo, 
 Who thus compelled to kiss her buckle 
 Most gallantly did downward truckle, 
 O ! 'twas a curious sight to see 
 Our tinsel Lord on'^bended knee, 
 Amid the gazing company, 
 
100 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Paying - adorations kind and meet 
 
 To the fallen beauty at his feet, 
 
 Assisted by the female troop, 
 
 To manage ma'am's unwieldy hoop, 
 
 While wits employed their jokes upon her, 
 
 Scoffing Queen Anne's fair maid of hon our* 
 
 'Tis said that in such trying cases 
 It has occurr'd at other places, 
 That when a lady's slipp'd her shoe, 
 And a gay youth has striven to do 
 The beauteous dame a gracious service, 
 She has not always call'd on Jarvis, 
 But tripp'd into some neighbouring chamber 
 With heart and wishes pure as amber, 
 Just to adjust the faithless sandal 
 That gives such sqope to cruel scandal 
 Then join the festive crowd once more, 
 And look as charming as before. 
 When Julia made her slight faux pas, 
 And, spite of care and fashion's law, 
 The garter dropped, a bagatelle, ^ 
 
 With haste retir'd the blushing belle, v 
 
 Pursued by gallant Colonel, y 
 
 Who eager to restore the boon, 
 Forsook the envying saloon, 
 Exclaiming with considerate care, 
 " I bar all squeaking, lady fair," 
 Thinking to reap a precious store — 
 " You fool," cried Julia, " bar the door !" 
 
 Our lady of the hoop and feather, 
 Though fools enough began to gather 
 
IN LONDON. 101 
 
 Around her, knew not thus the fas hion, 
 'Gainst tittering tongues to take precaution. 
 Soon as our studious, great magician, 
 Could comprehend her odd condition, 
 And get his wits from Saturn's distance, 
 He instant flew to her assistance, 
 And by his care and some potations, 
 Pour'd forth in magical libations, 
 She got restor'd, without one tumour, 
 To symmetry of form and humour. 
 
 The general masquerade begun, 
 Now comes the reign of wit and fun ; 
 Humour that paints the varying scene 
 With colours like a harlequin, 
 And dissipation, or that passion 
 Which in pure kindness we ca.ll fashion ; 
 That throws a mask upon the heart, 
 And charms with such capricious art ; 
 That to the gay and giddy fool, 
 Makes vice and ruin beautiful. 
 Here met, as in confusion's strife, 
 The various characters of life, 
 The manners of all nations shown, 
 Or vainly ap'd, except our own ! 
 Kings without kingdoms, as the fashion 
 But lately was in many a nation, 
 And statesmen without state, or coin 
 But to enable them to dine. 
 There Public Ruins, drest in rags, 
 Displays his empty paper bags, 
 Beside old Secret Influence, 
 Who with uncourtly impudence, 
 
102 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Bears o'er his cloak of legal black 
 
 A back stairs ladder on his back. 
 
 A barrister without a brief, 
 
 Strove in smart grins to hide his grief. 
 
 A modern Exquisite — a Dandy, 
 
 More fit to act a Highland Randy, 
 
 With limber waste and pantaloon 
 
 Enough to hold half the Saloon, 
 
 Enjoy'd, alas ! in poor Mad Tom, 
 
 His hour's importance stol'n from home, 
 
 Full well assur'd he could not err 
 
 In the poor witless character. 
 
 Here, a sad emblem of the town, 
 
 An alderman without a gown ; ' 
 
 An orator from city council, 
 
 Could'nt tell the grains are in an ounce well. 
 
 A haymaker, that knows to make 
 
 Her hay by moon -light without rake, 
 
 Pairs with the t booby fresh to town, 
 
 Nor waits to reap till harvest's brown. 
 
 A Cantab without Latin, trying 
 
 To win his gipsey love by dying 
 
 In doggrel strains from Mother Shipton, 
 
 Or humbler page that few have dipp'd in. 
 
 A grinder here without his knife, 
 
 Keeps a sharp out look for his wife, 
 
 And here a crier to all the nation, 
 
 Proclaims a lovely reputation 
 
 Lost somewhere in a bit of sport 
 
 About St. James's or the Court ; 
 
 Whoe'er shall bring this pretty bubble 
 
 Shall have the beauty for his trouble. 
 
 A harlequin that cannot dance, 
 
 In boots in vain essays to prance ; 
 
IN LONDON. 103 
 
 A Mercury in his go-cart wheeling, 
 That very soon shall seem a reeling ; 
 A Jew in christian garments deckt, 
 A methodist not of the elect ; 
 Blacklegs and jockies here are seen, 
 That at Newmarket ne'er have been, 
 Yet know to take the knowing in, 
 And pick their pidgeon to the skin. 
 Here Peter Pop, the pawnbroker, 
 Boldly sustains a character 
 For generous honesty and pity, 
 And here a Turner thrums this ditty : 
 
 THE TURNER. 
 
 Air — " A cobler there was." 
 
 A Turner I am, and from Tunbridge I come, 
 And the worst turn I've made is, in coming from 
 
 home ; 
 For no penny I've turn'd, since I came up to 
 
 town, 
 So I'll still turn again, and soon tramp my way 
 
 down. 
 Derry down, down, down, derry down. 
 
 No wonder my trade now, is not as 'twas wont, 
 And my nice furnish'd wares can't be turn'd to 
 
 account ; 
 For turn as I please, I find thousands of elves 
 Who are rivals to me — by all turning themselves. 
 
 Derry down, &c. 
 
104 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 With this whirligig scene sure my poor brains 
 
 will swim ; 
 For all things are turning, by magic or whim. 
 The darkest of nights is here turn'd into day, 
 So I'll go, while I see clear to turn the right 
 
 way. Deny down, &c. 
 
 Why should I stay here, to be idle and mourn 
 At the sight of odd fancies that other folks turn? 
 From what I see here, I see plain 'tis the go, 
 That if low can't turn high, then the high will 
 turn low. Derry down, &c, 
 
 In this masquerade place, where the rich folks 
 
 and great, 
 To shew off their characters think fit to meet, 
 They are turning their thoughts, just on purpose 
 
 to see 
 If by chance they turn poor, how much meaner 
 
 they'd be. Derry down, &c. 
 
 Lords may well turn to lackeys, and doctors to 
 
 quacks, 
 And great bank directors to Treasury hacks ; 
 For to fill any character, most people think 
 'Tis much harder to rise than it is for to sink. 
 
 Derry down, &c. 
 
 A placeman there, turn'd out of office, you see 
 What a crest-fallen upstart he now seems to be; 
 But if ever luck turns — to turn him in again — 
 This turning of fate would soon turn his poor 
 brain. 
 
 Derry down, &c. 
 
IN LONDON. 105 
 
 A turn-coat you see there, whose colour ne'er 
 
 chang'd ; 
 For his views were the same — on what side he 
 
 e'er rang'd ; 
 No turn he can take will affect him at all, 
 If his income but rise, though his character fall. 
 
 Derry down, &c. 
 
 The world and all things are thus turning 
 
 about, 
 The outs are turn'd in, and the inns are turn'd 
 
 out: 
 St. Stephen's turn'd honest, a wonderful thing, 
 And a downright republican praising the king. 
 
 Deny down, &c. 
 
 See lawyers turn'd peers, a poet turn'd clerk, 
 And ministers turn'd modest and bribe in the 
 
 dark ; 
 Each man has his price, said Sir Robert, 'tis 
 
 right, 
 For see, a staunch patriot is turn'd to a knight. 
 
 Derry down, &c. 
 
 But, turning as men are, the ladies, I find, 
 However they turn, they still keep the same 
 
 mind ; 
 And, though they deny it as firm as they can, 
 There's not one of them all but would turn to a 
 man. 
 Derry down, down, down, derry down. 
 
106 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 No more in lonely wood or meadow 
 Rinaldo-woos his dear Armida, 
 They meet, and sigh, and breathe aloud, 
 Their mutual vows amidst the crowd, 
 All as blind passion swells the gale 
 Through fashion's realms at random sail, 
 Or old or young, she still can see 
 No pleasure like variety. 
 'Tis this that seems of all most fair — 
 The matron keeps her maiden care ; — 
 Its triumphs mark — how many fools 
 Here scorn the dull and rigid rules 
 Which self-denying meek decorum 
 Would unrelentingly throw o'er them ! 
 Husbands in vain defend their wives, 
 While the lie's given them by their lives. 
 Love lives in deserts — all we see 
 Is passion, pride, or coquetry. 
 
 See Rosalind, the young and fair, 
 Her face, her heart are every where, 
 Her whole delight to flirt, to blaze, 
 And proud of every booby's gaze ; 
 Dangle, who dies beneath her frown, . 
 Like half the lounging fools in town, 
 Become a poet for her sake, 
 For Love they say a bard can make, 
 Thus pours the moralizing strain, 
 But follows, sighs, and rhymes in vain. 
 
IN LONDON. 107 
 
 TO ROSALIND. 
 
 Again a frown upon that brow ! 
 What the devil ails thee now ? 
 Always pouting — always flying, 
 Little Cupid is a dying. 
 
 While the blooms of beauty last, 
 Though thy brow be overcast, 
 Yet may the crowd of flatterers move 
 Around thy throne and call it love. 
 
 But trust me, maiden, time will fly ; 
 Too soon will winter gloom the sky : 
 Too soon will strip thy roseate bow'rs, 
 And banish far thy laughing hours. 
 
 Then, vainly, will thy eye-balls roll 
 To speak the feelings of thy soul ; 
 The homage paid to youth alone 
 Will scorn an aged tyrant's, throne. 
 
 For when revolving years shall pass, 
 And draw Time's furrows in thy glass, 
 No slave' will then thy call obey, 
 But youthful beauties claim their sway. 
 
 These characters our pair survey'd, 
 And puzzled was our lady's head 
 To find the quality of each, 
 For even our Conjuror could not teach, 
 
108 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 The secrets hid beneath each mask ; 
 
 So madam soon began to ask 
 
 Her neighbours round for information. 
 
 About each female reputation, 
 
 Which here as fancy's whims prevail, 
 
 Frolick'd beneath the double veil, 
 
 Or spurn before admiring eyes, 
 
 As passion prompts, the thin disguise. 
 
 Detraction ready is at hand 
 
 The little story to expand, 
 
 Her memory bids each folly live, 
 
 Nor can forget nor can forgive. 
 
 Kind Lady Simper pleas'd to tell 
 
 How well she knew each flirting belle, 
 
 Thus in a sort of diatribe 
 
 Essay'd her lions to describe. 
 
 " False as Calista, there you see 
 
 " Melinda drinking flattery 
 
 " From Florio's tongue, Florio the vain, 
 
 " And meanest of the coxcomb train. 
 
 " The friendly couch and conscious grove 
 
 " Attest Melinda's faithless love, 
 
 " Though high her husband's merits shine 
 
 " With virtues of the noblest line. 
 
 " Corinna next attracts the view 
 
 u In garments of cameleon hue, 
 
 " For ever varying, ever new. 
 
 " Nor think that she alone loves dress, 
 
 " Though thus with pride and costliness 
 
 " She flaunts at every masque and ball, 
 
 " Courting the gaze, the sneer of all. 
 
IN LONDON. 109 
 
 " Convenient taste ! may Bond-street flourish, 
 
 " And still the loves and graces nourish : 
 
 " A lover there Corinna gay 
 
 " Finds at her milliner's each day. 
 
 " Lucinda here has hither come, 
 
 " Because she found no joy at home, 
 
 " Though her kind loi-d in solitude 
 
 " Bewails her want of gratitude, 
 
 " And tranquil love and children fair, 
 
 " A heaven of bliss, invite her care. 
 
 " Flavia with looks that seem to mourn 
 
 " O'er fond affection's early urn, 
 
 " Or unrequited love, appears 
 
 " Not made of mirth and smiles, but tears. 
 
 " Has Flavia too been frail ? they say, 
 
 " Her husband looks another way. 
 
 " What can allay her keen remorse ? 
 
 " Nothing so like a quick divorce. 
 
 " Honoria comes, whom to prove chaste 
 
 " Heroes have joy'd their blood to waste. 
 
 " In vain their honourable wounds — 
 
 " A crim. con. and ten thousand pounds 
 
 " At once beyond dispute declare 
 
 " The honour of the spotless fair." 
 
 Good Mrs. Syntax lov'd eclat, 
 But rightly thought that fashion's law 
 Was rather lax when such transgressions 
 Appear'd to make such slight impressions ; 
 But those who own'd gay fashion's yoke, 
 How could they live like vulgar folk ? 
 And Lady Simper said the same, 
 Though thus she pour'd sharp envy's flame. 
 
110 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Syntax, who pois'd his wizard rod, 
 Now with high emulation glow'd, 
 To shew with pious mystery 
 This giddy world its destiny ; 
 With satire keen strike folly mute, 
 And shew its selfish vain pursuit. 
 He wav'd, and made his astral sign, 
 And drew around his circular line ; 
 More fiercely o'er his crown and cowl 
 Arose erect stern wisdom's owl. 
 And now in gathering crowds they ran 
 Around the venerable man, 
 All panting, eager and elate 
 To learn the dark decrees of fate. 
 " A Conjuror fresh from Capricorn," 
 They cried, " like him of Paderborn, 
 " A necromantic unbeliever, 
 " Born in a parson's gown and beaver."* 
 
 Our sage began now to expound 
 The fates of those assembled round. 
 Venus, he told Melinda's spouse, 
 Linger'd too long in pleasure's house, 
 And bade poor Florio beware 
 Of angry Mars's fatal square. 
 
 * According to the doctrine of Astrologers, Aries, Leo, 
 and Sagittarius make a man beloved ; Virgo, Taurus, 
 and Capricornus, make him religious ; Cancer, Scorpio, 
 and Pisces create falsehood ; whilst Gemini, Libra, and 
 Aquarius produce friendship ; the character of Saturn gives 
 strength ; Jupiter good fortune ; Mars victory, Sol, riches, 
 &c. The figure of an Ass engraved on a chrysolite (strange 
 to say) imparts the gift of prophesy and divination. 
 
IN LONDON. Ill 
 
 To fair Corinna and Miss Prue, 
 
 The cap might suit if it was new, 
 
 But if so oft aside they threw it, 
 
 By Gemini, they yet would rue it. 
 
 He learnt from Libra and Aquarius, 
 
 From Leo, Aries, Sagittarius, 
 
 A strange conjunction had ta'en place, 
 
 In Flavia's and Lysander's case, 
 
 And if it should but come to pass 
 
 Upon his chrysolite the Ass, 
 
 (His chrysolite of jealous green) 
 
 Should mark where Flavia's steps have been, 
 
 And tear aside weak falsehood's veil, 
 
 His rage might rouse the Scorpion's tail. 
 
 He late from Salamanca came, 
 
 With wonders fraught and sounding name. 
 
 Not Heisterbacht or Sigisbert 
 
 Knew more of necromantic art : 
 
 Could prove by old Crespetus' rule 
 
 The learned Lilly was a fool. 
 
 He could, he said, with magic spell 
 
 Bring Truth from her enchanted well ; 
 
 And therefore bade each anxious fair, 
 
 Of falsehood's guileful ways beware. 
 
 He could like Ovid's witching band 
 
 Strip orchards bare without a hand*^ 
 
 And if the crowds who hither mix 
 
 Knew not enough of juggling tricks, 
 
 * Carmine Icesa Ceres sterilem vanascit in herbam 
 Difficiunt leasi carmine fontis aquts 
 Ilicibus glandes cantataq ; vitibus uva 
 Decidit, et nullo poma movente fluant. 
 
 Ovid. 
 
112 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Nay, it could gentlest bosoms move, 
 And bless you with a lady's love : 
 Frowns it can chace, lost charms restore,- 
 Not oil of flattery pleases more ; 
 It gives to those who plead or preach 
 The power of most persuasive speech, 
 And even has made in Parliament, 
 Dumb members soon most eloquent ; 
 Its power with things forgotten blends 
 The memory of former friends, 
 And in oblivion's cold abyss 
 Of deadly aqua lethaMs, 
 For reputations crack'd and batter'd, 
 A solder that could ne'er be shatter'd ; 
 Like quacks, for each disease had spells, 
 And caps for fools as well as bells. 
 
 Next, he'd distill'd from rarest flower 
 A wondrous drug of potent power 
 Arum palpabile, which could 
 Inspire the mean with noblest blood, 
 Open the gates to courts and favour, 
 And change a dustman or a shaver 
 Into a knight or even a peer ; 
 Make stone blind ministers see clear, 
 Could shut the most vociferous mouth 
 That e'er was open'd north or south ; 
 Its soothing influence in a hurry 
 Abates the patriotic fury — 
 The rabies patriotica, 
 That foams and threatens soon to lay 
 Poor Constitution in its grave, 
 The body politic to save ; 
 
IN LONDON. 113 
 
 He would with more delight their view 
 Than gamesters or even blacklegs knew. 
 For each he had a charm to please, 
 And mend their mind and phantasies, 
 For coxcombs, modesty, for beauty, 
 The pleasures and the wreaths of duty ; 
 For knaves an honest occupation, 
 For churchmen pious toleration ; 
 For aldermen a feast he had, 
 (But devil's cookery's always bad) 
 Sometimes it haps there comes to vex ye 
 A most confounded apoplexy ; 
 Lays the foul fiend Remorse asleep, 
 As in the Treasury centre deep. 
 
 For this each soon express'd a want, 
 But this our Doctor could not grant, 
 Because, he said, and did not err, 
 Dame Fortune and the Minister 
 Dispens'd alone these blessings now, 
 And they must all their titles show, 
 In potent doses, deaf or dumb, 
 Of Oleum Sycophanticum. 
 
 Thus did our sage in long oration, 
 Attract the gaze and admiration 
 Of those who doat on quacks and cheats, 
 And see no gall beneath the sweets, 
 Till other objects tried their power, 
 And midnight brought the banquet hour. 
 
 How did our pair admire to see 
 The motley crowds and revelry, 
 
 Q 
 
114 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 That now commenc'd their depredations? 
 
 On the inviting frail creations 
 
 Of pastry-cook's delusive art, 
 
 And what the cellar can impart ! 
 
 Now happy they whose well chosen mask 
 
 Admits the tit bits or the flask ; 
 
 Or who, regardless of all eyes 
 
 Can spurn the troublesome disguise, 
 
 That makes the feast of mirth and beauty 
 
 Like plundering bandits at their booty. 
 
 Now jollity begins to roar, 
 
 That wisely silent sat before. 
 
 Must'ring for Bacchus's glorious fray, 
 
 Now shine the heroes on half pay ; 
 
 As if they were t' attack a dragon, 
 
 They drain and call th' auxiliar flaggon, 
 
 For how can they their foes oppose 
 
 Better than by a fiery nose ? 
 
 The lesser man to beat the bigger, 
 
 Must needs be a more potent swigger ; 
 
 And when we pay the honours due 
 
 To damsels fair and cruel too, 
 
 We find the grape's enliv'ning juice 
 
 At such coy times of sovereign use. 
 
 Therefore, for reasons such as these, 
 
 Or any others that you please, 
 
 The brave whose breasts and noses burn, 
 
 Began to triumph in their turn ; 
 
 While those who know in time to yield 
 
 Most prudently resign 'd the field, 
 
 Leaving the sport and the Champaign, 
 
 To Thais and her sprightly train. 
 
IN LONDON. 11-5 
 
 Thus did our pair with mind serene 
 Resign the glories of the scene. 
 Divested of his conjuring art, 
 Syntax resumes his proper part, 
 And, dreading his dear wife's reproach, 
 With anxious haste procures a coach ; 
 Then safely through the motley group, 
 Conducts his lady and her hoop; 
 While languid with fatigue and pleasure, 
 She was right glad to gain some leisure 
 To ruminate the various matter 
 She'd witness'd 'midst the joyous clatter ; 
 Though, when in coach she fixed her seat, 
 She own'd that rest was now a treat, 
 For o'er her nerves insidious sleep, 
 She felt had now begun to creep ; 
 And loth as she was to avow 
 Submission to a friend or foe, 
 Confess'd tranquillity, at length, 
 Was wanted to recruit her strength ; 
 And when to Marybone they'd come, 
 Rejoic'd they'd got to quiet home. 
 
 END OF THE FOURTH CANTO, 
 
116 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 CANTO V. 
 
 The bliss that flits in fashion's sky, 
 Is but a painted butterfly. 
 In pleasure's bright and sunny day 
 Smit with the lovely insect gay 
 That flutters in its varying dyes, 
 Th' enamour'd boy pursues the priae, 
 From daisied meads to fragrant bow'rs, 
 O'er Flora's blushing world of flow'rs ; 
 Now in the rose it veils its head, 
 Now riots in the violet's bed. 
 In cowslip close, amid the dell, 
 Or breast of some inviting bell, 
 Secure now seems the loit'ring fly, 
 But as his ardent hand draws nigh 
 On careful wing it rises high, 
 And shews its plumes and little wig 
 Upon the myrtle's loftiest sprig. 
 Sometimes, howe'er, in revelling hour, 
 It feels the fell destroyer's pow'r ; 
 By fairy imps that lurk beneath 
 The smiling flow'rs that lure to death, 
 Won at false pleasure's ball to sup, 
 And slumber in the poppy's cup. 
 
IN LONDON. 117 
 
 Crush'd as the thoughtless spoiler's prize, 
 It dies, alas ! how quick it dies ! 
 But Fame has everlasting treasures, 
 And fields that boast eternal pleasures. 
 Her radiant forms, though on the wing, 
 Are drest in hope's perpetual spring, 
 And ever without guileful art 
 A present paradise impart ; 
 Her pow'r can soften fortune's frown, 
 And spite of mis'ry give a crown. 
 
 Exhausted by the vast exertions, 
 Display'd in masquerade diversions, 
 Our wearied, philosophic, sage, 
 Retiring from the mimic stage, 
 Now yielded up to nature's hand 
 The wavings of his magic wand. — 
 As soon as on the pillow laid 
 Was his assiduous labouring head, 
 So soon did welcome, calm repose, 
 In tranquil frame his nerves compose ; 
 And balmy sleep, in six short hours, 
 Restor'd the tone of all his powers, 
 And train'd them fit, in due array, 
 For labours of the new-born day. 
 
 Of all the days of Syntax' life, 
 Save that on which he took his wife, 
 No day, to him, had with it brought 
 A time with great events more fraught ; 
 For this was the important day, 
 Big with the fate of — his dear play, 
 The day on which he was to learn 
 Th' impression which that grand concern 
 
118 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Had made on those who, proud, decide 
 
 What fate poor authors must betide. 
 
 Whether his play met approbation, 
 
 And was to reach representation ; 
 
 Or, whether any prohibition 
 
 Was to, prevent its exhibition. 
 
 That day was open'd to his view,* 
 
 When, if his piece receiv'd its due, 
 
 'Twould be his business to rehearse, 
 
 With all due emphasis, his verse ; 
 
 The day on which he should infuse 
 
 A Grecian soul in English muse, 
 
 In which the Green Room would admire 
 
 His bursts of true heroic fire , 
 
 And which would thenceforth fix his station, 
 
 High 'midst the poets of the nation. 
 
 How wondrous complaisant and kind, 
 To authors' works, is author's mind ! 
 O ! that all readers could likewise, 
 Read authors' works with authors' eyes ! 
 Relying on his proper merit, 
 No doubt had damp'd our sage's spirit ; 
 The ardour that had fir'd his breast 
 He thought by all would be con f est, 
 And fancied all, who caught the glow, 
 With zeal their plaudits would bestow. 
 
 With conscious powers and hopes elate, 
 Up Syntax rose to meet his fate ; 
 And masquerading all discarding — 
 His own high character regarding — 
 Boldly prepared himself, at once, 
 To seek the Oracle's response. 
 
IN LONDON. 119 
 
 While Mrs. Dolly with delight 
 Reflecting on the by gone night, 
 Was, plainly, not a little fain 
 Some high-bred manners to retain, 
 Which she conceiv'd she had supported 
 In the great character she'd sported ; 
 And like a lofty lady, still, 
 Was pleased to act in dishabille, 
 And wish'd to let the day advance, 
 In lounging and feign'd non-chalance. 
 
 ft 
 
 Not so our Doctor. Ardent man ! 
 Prompt to attend the great divan, 
 With throbbing breast, th' appointed hour, 
 Found him exact at Play-house door. 
 The spell that's form'd in studious bow'f 
 Had work'd with all its usual pow'r ; 
 His merit now esteem'd profound, 
 He soon an easy passage found 
 To where upon his Green Room throne, 
 With honour's swelling breath full blown, 
 The mighty Manager he saw 
 To kings and queens dispensing law. 
 His mimic train were rang'd around, 
 Their brows with borrow'd laurels crown'd, 
 Eager, the king of actors said, 
 To hear great Syntax' story read ; 
 For he by the great Sub's command 
 The Doctor's tragedy had scann'd ; 
 And though it was not quite the rage 
 To prize the Greek or Roman stage, 
 He safely thought that he might say 
 That thousands had been thrown away, 
 Upon a far inferior play ; 
 
120 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And those who judg'd as fancy lov'd, 
 Had many a meaner piece approv'd. 
 
 Delighted with the flatt'ring view 
 Of the dear scenes his fancy drew, 
 Our sage prepar'd with author's pride, 
 And proper and theatric stride, 
 To teach the histrionic train 
 To speak aright the tragic strain. 
 To hear his loud enunciation, 
 And see his strange gesticulation, 
 With legs and arms, at once outspread, 
 And hand oft clench'd to strike his head ; 
 To witness, now, his strut and vapour, 
 And next his start, and then his caper, 
 As if he meant, with airs grotesque, 
 To turn all acting to burlesque, 
 To witness these — and seem approving, 
 While all one's laughing nerves were moving, 
 Were too severe and hard a trial 
 For less than quaker's self-denial, 
 And might have mov'd e'en sterner faces, 
 Unless bomb-proof 'gainst all grimaces. 
 In gaping wonderment, amaz'd, 
 Each actor and each actress gaz'd, 
 To hear the learned sage rehearse 
 In proper phrase th' heroic verse, 
 As if great Roscius' self had risen 
 From death's uncomfortable prison 
 Relieved, (we love a verse sublime) 
 By the Insolvent Act of Time, 
 Like Hamlet or some bullying Hector, 
 To read the modern players a lecture. 
 
IN LONDON. 121 
 
 "Twas thus the Roman spoke his piece, 
 And thus the Thespian wits of Greece, 
 What time the Muses in their glory, 
 Pour'd from the cart their moving story, 
 With sound and true theatric phiz 
 To poet's verse gave emphasis. 
 'Twas thus their matchless manners aping, 
 That Garrick set the crowds a gaping, 
 Who nought could rightly understand, 
 But the dread wavings of his hand; 
 And thus the Roscius of our time, 
 With grinding teeth and pause sublime, 
 And on the breast a sudden fell blow 
 And starting to the fiddlers' elbow, 
 From pit, and box, and gallery draws 
 Such echoing thunders of applause. 
 In short, our Doctor showed aright 
 He knew to act as well as write ; 
 And testified he could with ease 
 The pit and gallery critics please. 
 
 Next his deep plot, and tragic strain 
 Show'd many a midnight hero slain, 
 And battling field and tyrant's rage, 
 That fill'd with blood th' ensanguin'd stage ; 
 And maids that wept for lovers dead, 
 Till the whites of their eyes were red ; 
 Cowards that strut with bullying swagger, 
 And queens that exit with a dagger ; 
 His hero's fate, his heroine's tale, 
 O'er gentlest bosoms must prevail ; 
 For like each pair in moving story, 
 " She died for love, and he for glory." 
 
122 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 While for the taste of those choice spirits, 
 Who judge by eyes of drama's merits, 
 The critics of Blowbladder-lane, 
 Duke's-court, or the acuter train, 
 In flaunting robes that nightly sally, 
 From Petticoat's delightful Alley ; 
 He had a store of scenic shows, 
 That would enchant the backmost rows, 
 In beauty each a paragon ; 
 And ever and anon came on 
 War's ensigns floating in the air, 
 In glittering pride of golden glare ; 
 Trumpets and drums enough resound, 
 And drown each other jarring sound. 
 Here, presto ! shall the scene display, 
 In martial pomp a prime array, 
 Of elephants (no common hacks,) 
 With towering castles on their backs ; 
 A dance of monkies, Moors, or Mufties, 
 And all in modern play that stuflPd is, 
 Shall stoutly aid the Muse's cause, 
 And bring down thunders of applause : 
 And then to make the groundlings stare, 
 A burning town or massacre, 
 A Troy, another blazing Troy, 
 Falls 'mid a furious general joy, 
 And, Dido like, to close the story, 
 The hapless heroine burns before ye. 
 
 These all, as by decree of fate, 
 In one unrivall'd place were met, 
 By Aristotle's rules combin'd 
 And power of the poetic mind, 
 
IN LONDON. , 123 
 
 To keep the unities entire, 
 
 And make the wondering crowds admire. 
 
 Thus having- read his story through, 
 And given the players a proper view 
 Of this his Tragic Epic, where 
 He had combin'd with matchless care 
 All that the modern taste approv'd, 
 With what the graver ancients lov'd ; 
 Our reverend and dramatic sage 
 Now clos'd at length th' eventful page, 
 And reap'd a soothing approbation, 
 In the pleas'd manager's expression, 
 Of joy at Doctor's power of writing, 
 And happier talent at reciting. 
 He thought our sage had won the dame, 
 Who covets either death or fame ; 
 That he the very taste had hit, 
 Of boxes, gallery, and pit ; 
 And that a tide of wealth must be 
 The offspring of his tragedy ; 
 Though certain critics in these days 
 Had impudently dar'd to raise 
 An inquisition over ink, 
 That folks should by one standard think, 
 And that true taste, like faith, should be, 
 Alone built on consistency. 
 The work, he candidly confess'd, 
 That pleas'd the most must be the best ; 
 And whether it was Mother Goose, 
 Giant or dwarf that fill'd the house, 
 Munchausen capering on his hobby, 
 Or tigers roaring in the lobby : 
 
124 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Whether 'tis Opera that's squeaking, 
 And only tuneful nonsense speaking, 
 Where sing-song leads the chiefs to battle, 
 As angry children squall at rattle ; 
 Or Comedy that talks in pun, 
 Without a spark of wit or fun ; 
 Or Tragedy, turn'd Melodrame, 
 Threatens to set the house in flame ; 
 Whatever is the rage — the rage 
 Must be the business of the stage ; 
 For players must please, 'tis justly said, 
 To live, or die for want of bread. 
 
 Good Syntax was so well contented 
 His piece should soon be represented, 
 That much he griev'd his reverend function. 
 Would not admit the odd conjunction, 
 Or he with all an author's heart, 
 Would joyfully have borne apart, 
 In the performance of the piece, 
 Which was his glory to increase, 
 And thus to add, though some might snarl, 
 The Thespian to the poet's laurel ; 
 But prudence calm'd his anxious breast, 
 And vain ambition's wish repress'd. 
 His tongue, however, like happy man, 
 On Epilogue and Prologue ran, 
 Two pretty Misses that attend 
 The haughty lady to her end : 
 One to explain the reason why, 
 Poor madam chooses thus to die ; 
 And why, though she be maid or wife, 
 Five acts must be her sum of life ; 
 
IN LONDON. 125 
 
 A novice that for favour pleads, 
 
 Like cloister'd nun with numbered beads ; 
 
 The other like a roving gipsy, 
 
 Laughing at grief as she were tipsy, 
 
 To chace afar the mournful train, 
 
 And joke you into joy again. 
 
 These, Doctor said, should be with pride, 
 
 By honourable hands supplied ; 
 
 Who keep for such theatric duties, 
 
 A sweet seraglio of such beauties. 
 
 Th' admiring master of the stage, 
 Assured our most delighted sage, 
 He now would think upon a day, 
 When this his most unrivall'd play, 
 Should, pleasing thought ! be fairly tried ; 
 And if by jealousy or pride, 
 Or raging in some deep carouse, 
 The acting pillar of the house 
 Should take it in his head to flout them, 
 They'd try for once to do without him. 
 
 Elate with hope and joy to think, 
 He thus was on the glorious brink 
 Of fame's most elevated station, 
 To reap a deathless reputation, 
 Our Doctor took, you may conceive, 
 A graceful and a grateful leave 
 Of all th' assembled Thespian crowd, 
 Who spoke of Syntax' praises loud ; 
 While he, unlike the tragic muse, 
 That loves to rove 'mid churchyard dews 
 With face most sadly melancholy, 
 Return'd with joyful step to Dolly, 
 
126 DOCTOK SYNTAX 
 
 Like a kind husband to impart, * 
 His triumphs to that faithful heart. 
 
 When our blest favourite of fame 
 Reach'd the gay boudoir of his dame, 
 He found her languid airs of fashion 
 Were giving way to stronger passion ; 
 For now the careful rites of beauty, 
 The toilette's most important duty, 
 Were o'er, and Dolly's cheeks were spread 
 With vermeil tints, as rosy red 
 As any sweet carnation flow'r 
 That blows in Covent Garden bower ; 
 And Dolly's heart was panting greatly 
 To shew herself and manners stately, 
 Among the loungers of the Park, 
 And all that's notable remark, 
 Gay, fashionable, grave or silly, 
 In Bond-street or in Piccadilly ; 
 Mayhap while shopping like the quality 
 With careless air of prodigality, 
 While turning o'er each mercer's heap, 
 Pick up a bargain very cheap. 
 
 Just as her tongue began to scold, 
 Syntax with welcome pleasure told, 
 The prospects that began to shed 
 Their unborn glories round his head ; 
 For now he saw the day approach 
 When haply they might sport their coach, 
 And shine and glitter in the drive 
 As gay as any pair alive. 
 Next with attention due he listen'd 
 To madam's wish, while her eyes glisten'd, 
 
IN LONDON. 127 
 
 To think she yet might roll along 
 In coach above the vulgar throng, 
 Envied, gaz'd at by all she meets, 
 In Rotten-row or London streets. 
 
 Thus with affection bland and kind, 
 Our Doctor sooth'd his lady's mind, 
 Then next attir'd in due array, 
 From Marybone they took their way ; 
 The world of fashion to explore, 
 And add two idle loungers more. 
 
 The day was fine, the parks were gay, 
 And brilliant was the rich display 
 Of coaches, cabriolets, landaus, 
 And beauteous dames in shining rows, 
 Drest to be seen, admir'd and lov'd, 
 Because kind fortune has approv'd ; 
 And troops of quizzing, vain equestrians, 
 And humbler minded, grave pedestrians, 
 Shunning awhile the air of town, 
 Amid the dust and grass so brown ; 
 Like cockney gay in Sunday dress, 
 Full of his rural happiness. 
 
 At length they reach'd the prospect fine, 
 That spreads around the Serpentine, 
 Its world of variegated charms, 
 And city breasts with ardour warms ; 
 When on its bordering walks of gravel, 
 They call to mind its fame so naval, 
 What time the fleets of Admiral Brown 
 In gallant style came bearing down, 
 
128 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Dark'ning with smoke each tree and field, 
 And taught the Yanke.y praams to yield, 
 And poor John Bull, who loves the story, 
 Paid sweetly for his mimic glory. 
 Syntax, to whom such scenes were dear, 
 Cried out " the picturesque is here ;" 
 And madam, like the folks from City, 
 Thought that the swans were very pretty ; 
 And then her thoughts began to roam 
 To her beloved brood at home, 
 That did not merely swim and gabble 
 But added comforts to her table. 
 
 Onward enamour'd still they rove 
 To Kensington's delightful grove, 
 Where 'mid the bow'rs and trees that spread 
 Their canopy's endearing shade, 
 They rested like the happy pairs 
 That there forget awhile their cares, 
 Pleas'd 'mid the rural scenes to rove 
 And pen their loves in each alcove. 
 Here, each fair objeet scanning quick, 
 The lawn, and palace made of brick, 
 The pond's soft waterskip serene, 
 And royal taste in green-house seen ; 
 Our Doctor's eye paid adorations, 
 While Madam made her observations 
 On all she saw. But soon she tir'd 
 Where she herself was not admir'd ; 
 So mindful she had other matters 
 To claim her care than lawns and waters, 
 She urg'd our Doctor back to travel 
 O'er Hyde Park's cruel walk of gravel, 
 
IN LONDON. 129 
 
 To Piccadilly's long expansion, 
 Compos'd of many a stately mansion. 
 There, recollecting things she wanted, 
 And, careful, taking it for granted, 
 They sell the cheapest who want trade, 
 She enter'd Burlington Arcade ; 
 Where new scenes of industrious care, 
 Salute our pleas'd and wondering pair ; 
 There a gay hive the gazer scans 
 Of fair and busy artizans, 
 The watchful anxious task who ply 
 Beneath the arching canopy. 
 There, for the brows of beauty made, 
 Bloom in the cool inviting shade 
 Roses unmoisten'd by the dew, 
 And garlands of unfading hue ; 
 There at each step fresh beauties rise 
 That won our lady's heart and eyes ; 
 Robes fine and cheap, and new and ready, 
 And fit, I ween, for any lady ; 
 There spreads the ivory figur'd fan, 
 To rule, to charm, and conquer man, 
 When sly behind that happy screen 
 The eyes' blue languish soft is seen ; 
 Here caps that wake each maiden's sighs, 
 And waving feathers of all dyes : 
 Hymen's blest rings and jewels rare, 
 Combs and cosmetics for the fair ; 
 Here meet in tempting show to .please ye, 
 And ladies, if you need, ajasy. 
 Our dame, who knew as well as any, 
 The way to buy and save a penny, 
 Ran through each gay Arcadian arbor, 
 From jeweller to humble barber : 
 
130 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 While Doctor, as a due ovation, 
 Penn'd this poetic salutation : 
 
 MODERN ARCADIA. 
 
 Flutt'ring spread thy purple pinions, 
 Cupid ! o'er this gay arcade ; 
 
 I, a slave in thy dominions, 
 Come to see how passes trade. 
 
 Mild Arcadians ! ever looking, 
 Anxious from your little shops ; 
 
 Sigh not though by hook or crook, in 
 Seldom wish'd for custom drops. 
 
 Here the sun's meridian lustre 
 
 Will not spoil your precious wares ; 
 
 Here perennial flow'rs may cluster — 
 All the tints that fashion bears. 
 
 Here the sportive Loves and Graces, 
 When proud Bond-street's glories fade, 
 
 Shall display their beauteous faces 
 In the bright and gay arcade. 
 
 Not a Cyprian goddess strolling 
 From the Park to Cranbourn fair, 
 
 But with eye in pleasure rolling, 
 Shall applaud the builder's care. 
 
IN LONDON. 131 
 
 Long, too long, has Cupid wander'd 
 
 Idly, like a shepherd clown, 
 Where the purling stream meander'd 
 
 Far from fashion — far from town. 
 
 Time it is he now should think of 
 
 Industry 's imperious call, 
 What he now should eat and drink of, 
 
 Or if he shall live at all. 
 
 Heed not jealous rivals seeking 
 
 To obstruct your gay alcove ; 
 Pleasure, Envy's fetters breaking, 
 
 Still shall haunt your shelter'd grove. 
 
 Busy nymphs, and ever blooming, 
 Let not Bacchus here intrude, . i 
 
 He with witching scents perfuming, 
 Might Arcadia's sons delude. 
 
 If in scorn of law and duty 
 
 He should e'er invade your vale, 
 Him may each Arcadian beauty 
 
 Pierce with unrelenting nail. 
 
 Should the cruel man of taxes 
 
 Here assail for window lights, 
 Turn your gates upon their axis, 
 
 Here you boast superior rights. 
 
 Tell th' Exchequer's prowling minions, 
 Peeping through your close arcade, 
 
 These are privileg'd dominions, 
 For the loves and gas light made. 
 
132 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Completed now, our lady's range 
 Even to the Western Exchange ; 
 She told the Doctor in a huff 
 There places were sold cheaper stuff; 
 They quickly therefore forth did sally 
 Through Lei'ster-square to Cranbourn-alleyo 
 
 Marvell'd our fair one much and loud, 
 As on she push'd amid the crowd, 
 To see the throng that haunt the square, 
 And wriggle through the alleys there ; 
 Much did she marvel to behold 
 King Charles upon his horse of gold, 
 And all that wakes to pleas'd surprize 
 In shops of splendid merchandize : 
 Trinkets, and gloves, and plate, and pastry, 
 Would fill a church or feed a vestry. 
 But chief her eye and mind's vagary 
 Fix'd on the endless millinery, 
 That tempting shines and lures afar, 
 Along the Alley's gay bazaar. 
 
 Now lighting up each pane of glass 
 Began to flare the streams of gas ; 
 Blest light ! that both illumes and warms, 
 And gives to bonnets double charms ; 
 That shews in bright and splendid glare, 
 The hitherto long hidden ware, 
 In regions pent where none could spy, 
 Except the pining owner's eye ; 
 Ignited essence ! Taught to beam 
 From lengthen'd pipes unsav'ry stream ! 
 O ! that we could with equal ease 
 Thus burn all noxious principles ! 
 
IN LONDON. 133 
 
 I hail thee, as it is my duty, 
 
 For all the aids thou giv'st to beauty, 
 
 And for the torch thou hold'st to love, 
 
 When saunt'ring crowds at ev'ning rove, 
 
 Through marts where nymphs with smiling eye 
 
 Invite each passenger — to buy. 
 
 There, 'mid the glories of the place, 
 
 The caps and shawls and loads of lace, 
 
 Our fair at length contriv'd to get 
 
 A beauteous figur'd sarcenet 
 
 At her own price, for a display 
 
 She meditated the next day ; 
 
 For her unsatisfied ambition 
 
 Now soar'd to see the Exhibition ; 
 
 Like other folks who love t'impart 
 
 Their judgment on the works of art, 
 
 And think to pass, festine lente^ 
 
 For connoisseurs and cognoscenti. 
 
 This, as their steps they homeward bent, 
 
 Ma'am told her spouse was her intent, 
 
 And hop'd that as a man of taste 
 
 He would not sure refuse to waste 
 
 An hour or two, or e'en a shilling, 
 
 In thus their mental pockets filling 
 
 With all the finest compositions ' 
 
 Of the renown'd Academicians ; 
 
 And thus encourage British genius 
 
 And industry, which worth a guinea is. 
 
 Syntax, who lov'd his prudent wife 
 And the fine arts, as dear as life, 
 Rejoic'd to see his spouse's mind 
 Was taking now a turn refin'd, 
 
134 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And thank'd her with no cold objection 
 For bringing to his recollection 
 The rich and yet untasted treat 
 At splendid Hall of Somerset ; 
 To-morrow then they should repair 
 To see the num'rous pictures there. 
 
 To-morrow came — we will not say 
 How dawn'd the morn or smil'd the day : 
 Suffice it was some time in May, 
 When nature's flow'rs and painters' blow, 
 Making a very pretty show. 
 Drest was our fair, her robes were new, 
 With pride she sought the public view, 
 And duly to the Doctor's mind 
 She now recall'd his promise kind, 
 To take her to the show of pictures, 
 Where they might lounge and make their stric- 
 tures. 
 Syntax was wrapt in pleasing dream, 
 Employ'd upon the muse's theme, 
 But left the Heliconian water 
 When madam's tongue began to clatter, 
 Alas! how oft that reckless tongue 
 Had put to flight the tuneful throng ; 
 The train of old though pretty misses, 
 That poets kept for private blisses. 
 Kind Syntax instant told his lady, 
 That he was willing and was ready, 
 To squire her to the appointed spot, 
 But his dear Dolly had forgot, 
 'Twas not the fashion at such places 
 For folks of note to shew theijr faces, 
 
IN LONDON. 135 
 
 To think of seeing or being seen, 
 Tho' custom different may have been, 
 Till one could scarcely see at all, 
 And then to crowd, both great and small, 
 Loud rattling into every hall. 
 
 I 
 
 Like country fair, in longing fret, 
 Ma'am sigh'd to sport her sarcenet, 
 And thought 'twas strange for well drest ladies 
 To be compell'd like such a-bed is, 
 To waste their beauty and their bloom 
 All day within a London room, 
 When pleasure tempts their feet to roam 
 And leave the narrow joys of home ; 
 But still she thought and check'd her passion, 
 'Twas proper to obey the fashion. 
 
 At length when fashion's strong quotidian, 
 Some hours beyond the bright meridian, 
 Began to rage, and wheels 'gan rattle, 
 And sounded feet of Jehu's cattle, 
 And few that heard were at a loss 
 To know high tide at Charing-Cross ; 
 Our Doctor, to avoid reproach, 
 Procur'd likewise the pleasing coach, 
 Though hackney'd in the public service, 
 And hard and batter'd as old Jarvis. 
 It happ'd this day a double treat 
 Appear'd reserv'd our pair to greet, 
 For in the streets of this great city, 
 There's always something very pretty ; 
 And this was madam's true remark, 
 When starting, brisk as any lark, 
 
136 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 She read with joy in morning paper, 
 A programme of the splendid vapour, 
 The grand and courtly ceremony, 
 To please the eyes of honest Johnny, 
 And his Excellency the Shah, 
 Who comes to teach us Persian law, 
 Which royal and sublime display 
 Was to take place that very day. 
 With haste both Doctor and his spouse, 
 Bade Jarvis pass by Carlton-House, 
 That they might see the grand procession 
 That was t' astonish all the nation. 
 With speed they drove then by Pall Mall, 
 Where there has oft been many a swell, 
 And many more that yet may be 
 At cost of British industry. 
 
 The streets were full, the crowds were gaping, 
 And guards a fine parade were making, 
 And masters of the ceremonies, 
 Ambassadors, bed-chamber cronies, 
 And other folks that take your monies ; 
 Grooms, porters, and thief-takers too, 
 To pay 'Bui Hassan honours due. 
 O 'twas a goodly sight to see, 
 And Madam thought it witchery. 
 To witness all the splendid show 
 Of fine drest horses in a row,* 
 
 * This procession is memorable ; and the following 
 item in the account is worthy of notice as a specimen of 
 Eastern taste and splendour: "Eight horses, caparisoned 
 " after the fashion of Persia, in brocade trappings, gold 
 " and silver mounted bridles, led by royal and Persian 
 
IN LONDON. 137 
 
 Aye ! horses flaunting in brocade, 
 
 Their very tails in lace array 'd. 
 
 Bridles of silver and of gold, 
 
 Things most delightful to behold, 
 
 When guineas are so scarce, and willing, 
 
 Industrious folks can't get a shilling ! 
 
 Then there were all the precious things 
 
 From Persia's lord, which eastern kings 
 
 Might wear, and from them haply parted 
 
 With feelings rather tender-hearted. 
 
 A sweet and most inviting pageant, 
 
 Worthy the Shah's good friend the Regent ; 
 
 'Tis said there were two royal coachful, 
 
 But all to tell might be reproachful ; 
 
 Suffice to say, the welcome Khan, 
 
 Found here as splendid a divan, 
 
 Of ministers and courtly beauties 
 
 Attentive to the important duties 
 
 Of adding lustre to the throne, 
 
 And polishing the royal bone, 
 
 As glitt'ring shows, and slavish lords, 
 
 As even Persia's court affords. 
 
 But these true dignity conceals, 
 
 Nor e'er to vulgar eye reveals, 
 
 grooms." The gold enamelled boxes, strings of pearls, 
 carpets of Herat, and magnificent Cashmere shawls for 
 the beauties of the British Court, said to have been pre- 
 sented to the R on this occasion, though they would 
 
 doubtless shine andglitter in the verse, like " orientpearls 
 at random strung," might, to those who are uotinterested 
 in the gifts, be rather tedious in the enumeration : we 
 therefore leave them to him who shall prove the most 
 faithful of court historians. 
 
138 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 For minds and tempers low and vitiate 
 
 Can't properly such things appreciate, 
 
 And sometimes majesty is made 
 
 A little mightier by the shade. 
 
 Anxious did our fair lady's peepers, 
 
 Wondering like the renown'd seven sleepers, 
 
 When on the crowds they oped their eyes, 
 
 After a doze of centuries, 
 
 To see if aught of female beauty 
 
 In Persia's long array did duty, 
 
 To show the glory of that court 
 
 Where all the loves and graces sport, 
 
 But not a blue-ey'd fair Circassian 
 
 Would shew her person or the fashion ; 
 
 Though many a curious gossip ran 
 
 About the highly favour'd Khan, 
 
 And one belov'd and beauteous slave 
 
 Whom Persia's mighty sovereign gave 
 
 To decorate official bowers, 
 
 And charm the ling'ring idle hours. 
 
 Her, Doctor in poetic mood 
 
 Conceiv'd in haram's solitude, 
 
 Inditing such a love-lorn ditty, 
 
 As this, to move some reader's pity. 
 
IN LONDON. 139 
 
 EPISTLE 
 
 FROM THE FAIR CIRCASSIAN IN ENGLAND. 
 
 Za jjer Sober at Zexki, 
 
 THE CAPITAL OF CIRCASSIA. 
 
 From Britain's isle — from freedom's loveliest 
 
 reign, 
 Will dearer Zara hear a slave complain ? 
 Can Zara listen to Zophira's sighs, 
 Thus doomed by fate a helpless sacrifice, 
 To seem to stain her soul's warm plighted truth, 
 And give to doating age her bloom of youth ? 
 Zara, belov'd of maids, will spurn the strain, 
 Yet will Zophira's swelling heart complain. 
 
 In vain with pomp and pride of lawless joy 
 Would luxury this cankering care destroy ; 
 Not all the grandeur of imperial power, 
 From memory's tablet can efface the hour, 
 When forced from Terki's walls thy captive 
 
 bride, 
 Was made to swell a Persian tyrant's pride. 
 Though to another's happier arms decreed, 
 Yet conscious virtue disapproves the deed : 
 Still, still my bosom feels the nobler flame, 
 Still unreprov'd it owns thy gentler claim. 
 Ah ! why distinguished from the happier crowd, 
 To me the bliss of millions disallow'd ? 
 Why was I singled for a lustful prey, 
 When love and duty point a different way ? 
 
110 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 A private lot had made two bosoms blest, 
 And given to virtue peace, to conscience rest- 
 Seek not, ye daughters of Circassia's plain, 
 The gifts that make you slaves of guilt and 
 
 men, 
 And spurn the power of gain, ungenerous sires, 
 Whose sordid breasts the demon passion firesi 
 To barter helpless innocence for gold,* 
 For never shall your eyes again behold, 
 The charms you thus, 'gainst bounteous Hea- 
 ven's design, 
 To ling'ring woe and slavery consign. 
 
 Unhappy they who till a burning soil, 
 Whom cruel arts of liberty despoil ; 
 But not alone the wretch thus forc'd to yield, 
 And dew with tears and blood th' oppressor's 
 
 field, 
 Deserves compassion's sigh — the pitying aid, 
 That seeks the joys of liberty to spread ; 
 
 * The female children of the Circassians are gene- 
 rally bought by the Turks and Persians, who bring 
 them up for their seraglios. The women pass among 
 the Turks for very great beauties, their complexions 
 being extremely fine, and their figures handsome ; but 
 it is remarkable that the men are in general very ugly. 
 They are Tartars, of a middle stature, with coarse 
 black hair, and broad flat faces. The Turks are in 
 possession of Terki, the only city in Circassia, which 
 though a large country is unable to defend itself, and 
 is under the protection of Persia, Russia, and the 
 Turks, as circumstances determine, or the wishes of 
 the people lead them to seek aid ; but like other re*- 
 publics, it is generally the prey of the strongest of ife 
 kingly neighbours. 
 
■ . IN LONDON. 141 
 
 Not less the tears of sympathy belong, 
 To the luxurious Harem's captive throng, 
 Where beauty droops to passion's rage a slave, 
 And finds at once a prison and a grave. 
 
 Whate'er is great and gay around me shine, 
 And all the splendour of a court is mine ; 
 But still my spirit, anxious to be free, 
 Scorns the vain pomp of state, and flies to thee • 
 Flies to the scenes where oft our vows were 
 
 paid, 
 The bowers of roses and the palm tree's shade ; 
 Where hope so oft anticipated joy, 
 And plann'd of future years the sweet employ. 
 
 Too well can memory's aid those scenes renew, 
 That claim, though far away, the sad adieu : 
 No more for thee at evening's balmy hour, 
 I fondly linger in the rose's bower ; 
 No more for us in pleasure's happy vale, 
 Sings from her fragrant tree the nightingale ; 
 No more thy arms enamour'd round me twine, 
 And make the couch of love a scene divine ; 
 O'er me no more the palm tree's branches wave, 
 In foreign lands a stranger and a slave. 
 
 The hapless victim of enthralling guile, 
 Soon as his steps imprint Britannia's isle, 
 Feels the degrading fetters bind no more, 
 Free as the gales that sweep her happy shore : 
 Not so with her who breathes the plaintive lay, 
 Courts claim the privilege of tyrant sway ; 
 And poor Zophira mourns her freedom gone. 
 Even in the blaze of liberty's best throne. 
 
142 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Yet not in lonely solitude I mourn, 
 The hours, the scenes, that never shall return, 
 Though loneliest solitude that speaks of thee, 
 Were dearer far than beauty's courts to me. 
 'Tis said, and well the pleasing truth I find, 
 Britannia's daughters bear a liberal mind : 
 When guardian eunuchs sheath th' obedient 
 
 sword, 
 To sooth the pride of Persia's haughty lord, 
 Zophira's splendid prison oft can boast, 
 The fairest forms that deck this happy coast ; 
 Come they with sympathizing, bland caress, 
 To give the pining victim happiness ? 
 With Europe's lore and piety combin'd 
 To shed a radiance o'er my bright'ning mind ? 
 To tell me soothing tales of love divine, 
 That, dearest Zara, may atone for thine ? 
 Ah, no ! with other views they come — to trace 
 Zophira's form and each Circassian grace ; 
 To gaze with idle and enquiring eyes, 
 On Luxury's slave and Passion's sacrifice j 
 To catch from her who vainly thus beguiles, 
 New ways to charm and more seductive wiles — 
 Alas ! Zophira knows no other art 
 Than nature taught to captivate the heart : 
 And all she sees who court the fatal spell, 
 Already know the guileful arts too well. 
 Too well they know to languish and to spread, 
 The wasted cheek anew with vermeil red. 
 But these are ways to wake the warm desires, 
 That fashion's revelling train alone requires, 
 And these Zophira leaves, superfluous, vain, 
 To slaves that drag a still more odious chain, 
 
IN LONDON. 143 
 
 To courtly dowagers and marchionesses, 
 
 And princes whom such peerless beauty blesses. 
 
 Thrice happy land where Cashmere's roses 
 
 blow, 
 In spite of frowning age 'neath brows of snow, 
 And power itself, a slave to beauty grown, 
 Holds a gay court for pleasure's rites alone ; 
 But hapless she whose heart is far away 
 From bliss sincere 'mid joy's imperial sway : 
 In spite of Persia's lord and fortune's power, 
 It dwells with Zara still in Terki's bower. 
 
 Pass'd the vain pride and pomp of state, 
 Our happy pair, with hearts elate, 
 Set out upon their expedition, 
 To figure at the Exhibition. 
 
 Rattled the coach along the Strand, 
 And reach'd the pillar'd dome so grand, 
 That rears o'er father Thames's side 
 Its columns, once of royal pride, 
 Wonder of art, the house of stone, 
 Which though its outside black is grown, 
 Has, like a saint, an inside bright, 
 All growing with celestial light ; 
 The light that, with seraphic wings, 
 Mild genius sheds on mortal things, 
 Teaching, with pencil from the skies, 
 A thousand beauteous forms to rise, 
 That hold a most delightful strife, 
 And give to nature mimic life. 
 
144 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Coaches on coaches crowded on 
 Along the gate-way's sounding stone, 
 And our good couple in a crack 
 Found hundreds pressing at their back. 
 Ma'am knew not scarcely what to do, 
 One soil'd her gown, or tore her shoe, 
 And others squeez'd her black and blue. 
 
 Out with your money or your ticket, 
 And you may pass the wooden wicket ; 
 But, if you would your fancy jog, 
 Buy, though 'tis dear, a Catalogue, 
 Dull as the speeches of quod libiters, 
 And then you'll see who are th' Exhibiters. 
 Our pair observ'd these due precautions, 
 Following attentive to the fashions 
 In all things, wheresoe'er they went, 
 As wisdom prudent council lent ; 
 And then they enter'd the great hall, 
 'Mid crowds of critics great and small, 
 From Portland-place to lanes of Wapping, 
 Each with a knowing face broad gaping — 
 On works of taste and years of care, 
 On labours beautiful and rare, 
 The toils of night and toils of day, 
 Which fame or time will ill repay ; 
 Yet thus on Genius's loftiest pride 
 Shall critics such as these decide ! 
 Ah ! may not these our humble rhimes, 
 In present or in after times, 
 Depend upon such learn'd decisions 
 As you may hear at Exhibitions ! 
 One wonders that such pains are taken 
 To paint a cow or piece of bacon, 
 
IN LONDON. 115 
 
 When all such things are very common 
 
 Without such aid, to man and woman ; 
 
 Another, candid, vents the opinion, 
 
 That thus to labour on an onion, 
 
 Cabbage or turnip, or a carrot, 
 
 Is what some people well may stare at, 
 
 For 'twould be more deserving praise, 
 
 Useful, and easier too, to raise 
 
 The real things themselves for eating, 
 
 Than spend whole years in imitating. 
 
 Here dames whom paints and patches gai'nish, 
 Protest against the smell of varnish, 
 And wonder that the painter's liver 
 Exists among such scents for ever ; < 
 There with his spectacles on nose 
 Some pseudo critic anxious goes, 
 Calling the hangman stupid rogue ; 
 Another damns the catalogue, 
 When, for some peerless beauty staring, 
 He haply finds a rabbit warren, 
 Or lowly pig stuck in a stile 
 For landscape bright with Heaven's own smile. 
 
 All have their likings, though with taste 
 All may not be supremely blest ; 
 Some lov'd a miniature most dearly, 
 Because you saw the features clearly, 
 Or just because, (the thought's unkind) 
 Trifles delight the little mind ; 
 Some dwelt with rapture on the views, 
 Where fancy with profusion strews 
 A rarest medley o'er the land 
 Of charms from her bravura hand ; •• '• 
 
I 
 
 146 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 On the sky-maker's blues and reds 
 They fed their eyes or shook their heads ; 
 Adniir'd some clodpole's curly pate, 
 Or beauty of a " Turnpike gate ;" 
 And some now lov'd a church's door 
 That scarcely e'er were there before. 
 Soft pencillings from ladies' hand 
 Here spread their magic tints so bland, 
 In landscapes drawn from fairy land ; 
 There taste shines in the " Boulevard"* 
 And delicacy, though 'tis hard ; 
 And views, God help us ! sure I am 
 From very heart of " Rotterdam,"-)- 
 With frippery to turn our brain, 
 And charm us into Dutch again. 
 
 Much did our pair, and the most sulky, 
 Admire thy figures, comic Wilkie ! 
 And doated on the " Penny Wedding," 
 Where mirth from morn until the bedding, 
 Held happy revels, wild and frisky, 
 As in the land of Scottish whisky. 
 
 Here some with rude intrusive rattle 
 Cried, " what a glorious thing's a battle," 
 And found of honour and of gore 
 A plenteous field in Marston Moor,% 
 
 * A very lively view of the Boulevards of Paris, by 
 Mrs. C. Long, lady of the paymaster-general of the 
 forces. 
 
 t By Calcott, a picture of great brilliancy. 
 
 t The battle of Marston Moor, near York, fought 
 in the year 1644, representing the leaders in both armies ; 
 
IN LONDON. 147 
 
 Where, wak'd by art, o'er heaps of slain, 
 The battle rages fierce again, 
 Around the standard rear'd to bring 
 Conviction home to England's king ; 
 Where England's sons drew the bold sword 
 Against the power of England's lord, 
 And royal pride and royal power 
 Felt in dismay the avenging hour — ■ 
 Confusion's route and ruin's rack 
 Are driven along the fatal track, 
 And Art, amid her scenes so gory, 
 Smiles o'er her conquer'd field in glory. 
 
 Our lady thought, howe'er, like some 
 Who have not drawn their taste from Rome, 
 Such pictures might be full of spirit, 
 And boast historic truth and merit, 
 But he or she must own, who scans, 
 They're fit but for republicans. 
 
 Our Doctor, meantime, was not dull 
 To find the grand and beautiful ; 
 Courting in painting as in rhyme, 
 The picturesque and the sublime. 
 Like others who have skill in paint 
 And only praise the President, 
 His soaring mind and eye Iov'd best 
 To trace the sacred lines of West, 
 Where fancy and the pencil, free ~\ 
 
 From clogs of dull humanity, > 
 
 Dash into immortality ; J 
 
 an excellent picture, said to be taken from authentic 
 family portraits, and the best records of that dis- 
 astrous conflict; by Mr. A. Cooper, A. R. A. 
 
148 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 But lib'ral too, he could admire 
 The flights of mind, the tints of fire, 
 That with no fading lustre shed 
 A grace round other artists' head. 
 
 Dwelling on pure and holiest theme, 
 He raptur'd roves o'er " Jacob's Dream,"* 
 Where a celestial, happy train, 
 Ascend the bright aerial plane — 
 A flight to mortals seldom given — 
 A flight of steps that lead to Heaven ! 
 Or takes a walk with that old coger, 
 Good Mr. Addison's « Sir Roger,"f 
 To church with his renown'd narrator 
 The witty, graceful, sweet Spectator. 
 That sword, cock'd hat, and flowing wig, 
 Of worthiest knight, may well look big ; 
 That gold lac'd coat of scarlet hue, 
 And stockings brown and red heel'd shoe, 
 Will seem for ever fresh and new. 
 How would our Doctor on that day 
 In pulpit love to preach and pray, 
 
 * By W. Allston, A. R. A. A fine poetical picture, 
 in which the ladder mentioned in the text in a figura- 
 tive view, is changed into three successive and immense 
 flights of broad steps ! The ascent from earth to Hea- 
 ven is, of course, a work of great labour ! 
 
 t Sir Roger de Coverly going to church, accompa- 
 nied by the Spectator, and surrounded by his tenants. 
 (Spec. No. 112.) by C. R. Leslie, a young American 
 artist, of much genius in the class of real life. 
 
IN LONDON. 149 
 
 And show his honourable guest 
 How he could hit Sir Roger's taste ! 
 
 For Mrs. Syntax — like the dames 
 Who most admire the costly frames, 
 And pictures that the fancy move 
 To something that partakes of love, 
 She, with a roving eye, good madam, 
 Ran over all, from Eve and Adam, 
 In their primeval state of nudity 
 To every other naked oddity, 
 That shewed the accurate displays 
 And purity of the R. A.'s — 
 The pieces that have most effect, 
 A Ganymede on eagle's neck ; 
 Europa's beautiful seduction,* 
 And every other chaste production 
 From the rich treasures of mythology, 
 Without an effort at apology. 
 
 Here the chaste Dame and pretty Miss 
 Devour alike the " Stolen Kiss,"-)" 
 And Lady C. here shows her charms, 
 Her lovely bosom, neck, and arms, 
 With as enchanting prodigality 
 On canvas, shown to aid morality, 
 
 * By W. Hilton, an R. A. 
 
 t From Guarini's Pastor Fido, by the President 
 West, who exhibits also (mark the versatility of genius) 
 the Resurrection of our Saviour, Caesar reading the 
 History of Alexander's Exploits, and other historical 
 paintings, which have long been exhibited in the Pre- 
 sident's Gallery. 
 
150 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 As fashionable elegance 
 Exhibits in her non chalance.* 
 
 Ah, ye fair students of the art, 
 That gently captivates the heart, 
 Let one who loves to see you blest, 
 The too seductive toil arrest ; 
 When, led by most mistaken rule, 
 By custom trained in folly's school, 
 Pride makes it, or the stronger fashion, 
 The top of female education, 
 To leave the worthier parts undone, 
 And study things you ought to shun.-f' 
 
 Fir'd with the admiration paid 
 By ev'ry tongue to beauty's shade, 
 And with, bold thought ! the high ambition 
 To hang in state in Exhibition, 
 
 * The portrait of ladies, and ladies' drawings, we 
 ought to scan very gently. They are all in general 
 " beautifully drawn and coloured ;" but the Doctor 
 justly remarked that there is in painting technical 
 modes of producing a harmonious surface for the eye, 
 as in poetry of producing a melodious versification for 
 the ear, which have become common-place matters, 
 and mere work of imitation in both arts. 
 
 t We cannot omit here censuring the egregious 
 folly of making the drawing-school so much a part of 
 female education, and the impropriety of mixing girls 
 with young men in drawing from the naked antiques ; as 
 is the practice at the British Museum : thereby wasting 
 a great part of their lives upon that which, in nine 
 cases out of ten, cannot be of any use to them. 
 
IN LONDON. 151 
 
 The wife of Syntax, humble Dolly, 
 Now strongly felt the raging folly ; 
 And though for it she might be sermon'd 
 By those who dar'd, she now determin'd 
 To have her own dear self pourtray'd, 
 In colours gay, by painter's aid. 
 Lawrence would paint her to the life, 
 Could he but see great Syntax' wife, 
 But he's to Rome's proud city gone, 
 To paint the whore of Babylon. 
 Had modest Harry reigned now, * 
 Such things as these he'd ne'er allow. 
 But great Sir William's self would copy 
 Her beauty's rose, or rather poppy ; 
 And in a frame of massy gold 
 For wond'ring gazers to behold, 
 She thus, if price was not too high, 
 ' Would show the world her quality. 
 
 One springing thought leads to another, 
 And every whimsy has a brother. 
 
 * It is well known that the resistance of Henry the 
 Eighth to the authority of the Pope, was occasioned 
 by the repugnance of his Holiness to allow Henry his 
 divorce ; from that period (after having been the ad- 
 vocate of the Pope against Martin Luther, which 
 obtained him the title of Defender of the Faith,) that 
 monarch became the bitterest enemy of the Holy Father, 
 questioning his right to interfere in the concerns of this 
 country : and hence we may date the revolution in eccle- 
 siastical affairs. 
 
152 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 As o'er the painted prospect spread 
 To catch the eye in way of trade, 
 A useful scheme — at once to tell you 
 The state of art and pictures' value ; 
 Our Madam's head, to shew her skill, 
 Went round and round, just like a mill, 
 She caught a view of Richmond-hill :* 
 A spot she oft heard prais'd for beauty, 
 And which she thought 'twas now her duty 
 To see, and like the Doctor's wife, 
 To represent it to the life ; 
 To talk of picturesque effect, 
 And all the scenes so gaily deckt 
 With wood and water, country villas, 
 And winding Thames's drooping willows, 
 She therefore made a memorandum 
 In her own mind, not quite at random, 
 Which she resolv'd, when coast was clear, 
 Should soon be rung in Doctor's ear. 
 
 Our Doctor's heart was pleas'd to see 3 
 The British pencil's industry, 
 The triumphs and the power of taste 
 From the faint effort, sketch'd in haste, 
 To finish'd picture, wrought with care, 
 High pric'd, and beautifully rare, 
 But wish'd to see the precious oil 
 Devoted more to public toil ;*f 
 
 * By Turner. A noble indication of the artist's talent 
 for local nature, which with sweetening and a little 
 more aerial tinting, would most certainly be one of 
 his finest prospects. 
 
 t All that has yet been done to commemorate the 
 
IN LONDON. 153 
 
 Enough on things of humbler station, 
 
 In flatt'ring pride and affectation, 
 
 In minist'ring to ignoble sense, 
 
 Or aiding dreams of indolence, 
 
 The Arts that wake a generous flame, 
 
 Had bent the peerless pencil's aim. 
 
 How many claims, superior, ask 
 
 Performance of the nobler task ! 
 
 How many glorious deeds demand 
 
 The labours of the painter's hand ! — 
 
 The deeds — the scenes that still inspire 
 
 In history's page, a virtuous fire, 
 
 That prompt to honourable toil, 
 
 From Spartan or Athenian soil ! 
 
 What fields have shown in prosp'rous fight 
 
 The splendour of Britannia's might ! 
 
 What scenes do Albion's land and sword, 
 
 To life securing Art afford ! 
 
 The worth that died to save her state, 
 
 Her proudest halls should decorate. 
 
 Say, shall they glut th' oblivious grave, 
 
 Who perish'd freedom's land to save, 
 
 And not a patriot pencil give 
 
 The light that bids their spirit live ? 
 
 The worth that pants for public praise, 
 
 And strives a drooping state to raise, 
 
 splendid achievements of the British arms during the 
 late war, has been to send Sir Thomas Lawrence, horse 
 race speed, after the heads of the Holy Alliance, at 
 the moderate charge of 500 guineas each, to form 
 a gallery for the Prince Regent, beginning with the 
 Emperor Alexander and ending with the Pope ! ! 
 
 x 
 
154 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 The train of images that roll 
 Heroic ardour o'er the soul ; 
 The scenes that Britain's zeal impart, 
 Should live in miracles of art. 
 
 Sated at length with seeing pictures, 
 And showing taste and making strictures 
 On marble statues and enamels 
 That hold the gentle mind in trammels ; 
 And Madam having noted well 
 The dress and air of ev'ry belle 
 Who came from country or from town, 
 To show her taste, or cap, or gown, 
 Our pair so critical and learn'd 
 By stomach's warning clock discern'd, 
 (Stomach that has more taste than all 
 The gaping crowd so critical,) 
 'Twas time to leave the gilded scenes 
 Where nought but painters' ever-greens 
 And laurels flourished, that to eat 
 Are found to be but sorry meat ; 
 This inward call should none neglect 
 Who study nature and effect ; 
 Who, feasting in no idle dream, 
 Love to inhale more savoury stream, 
 Than ever purl'd through greenwood shade, 
 Or painters, wretched cooks, pourtray'd ; 
 And who, to meet their hungry wishes, 
 Know well where stand the tempting dishes. 
 Unus'd to dine on wood or stone, 
 Our pair return'd to Marybone, 
 More solid matters to discuss 
 Than those 'bout which there's such a fuss, 
 
IN LONDON'. 155 
 
 "Mong those who think they have a gout, 
 
 Smit with the mania of virtu, 
 
 Who, careless, haply e'en of starving, 
 
 Imagine nothing worth preserving, 
 
 But canvas blotted o'er with paint, 
 
 Or lumber from the garrets sent. 
 
 KND OF THE FIFTH CANTO. 
 
156 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 CANTO VI. 
 
 To mimic Art and Fashion's reign 
 We've pour'd the tributary strain ; 
 Travers'd each wild enchanted ground, 
 And at each altar bow'd profound ; 
 To Nature now we turn our song, 
 The lays to Science yet belong. 
 And here, our Canto to prelude, 
 The Epic muse in raptur'd mood 
 Devotes a portion of her lay 
 To her who charm'd her earliest day. 
 
 Mistress of all, good Mother Nature, 
 I really love thy ev'ry feature ; 
 Whether thou kindly deign'st to smile, 
 In mongrel or in mermaid style, 
 Defac'd with all the gewgaws pretty 
 That Art has borrow'd from the city, 
 To ornament thee, queen of dames ! 
 Along the borders of the Thames, 
 From London Bridge's water mill 
 To Richmond's celebrated Hill ; 
 
IN LONDON. 157 
 
 Or whether on some distant mountain 
 
 Oak crown'd, or by the crystal fountain 
 
 Where health and joy untainted spring, 
 
 And peace outspreads a halcyon wing ; 
 
 Where men, though poor, are happy seen, 
 
 And women do not burst with spleen ; 
 
 Thou lead'st a simple hermit's life, 
 
 And smile serene at human strife : 
 
 Whether thou rovest in sportive mood, 
 
 By borders of the gay green wood, 
 
 Whereon no ruin'd tradesmen dangle, 
 
 Or triest till eve the patient angle 
 
 Along the clear and winding river, 
 
 Where cockney drunk, or steam-boat never 
 
 Defil'd the lustre of the tide, 
 
 Or rose sublime the domes of pride. 
 
 I love to trace thee, Nature fair, 
 
 And shun like thee, the town-bred air ; 
 
 But this is talking idly now — 
 
 Fate has decreed, and I must bow 
 
 To her irrevocable fiat, 
 
 That muse's fancy must be quiet 
 
 On all such visionary topics, 
 
 Now almost distant as the tropics, 
 
 And stick to this important story, 
 
 And the more splendid scenes of glory 
 
 That spread their rich and shining pride 
 
 Along old father Thames's side ; 
 
 And make his streams, though rather muddy, 
 
 In truth a most delightful study. 
 
 'Tis said by those the truth have tried, 
 Women are never satisfied ; 
 
158 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 This our good Doctor found when Dolly, 
 
 In graceful, pensive melancholy, 
 
 Began, with future joy in view, 
 
 To run her memorandums through, 
 
 And in her peremptory way, 
 
 To wish, (as much, you know's, to say 
 
 That Doctor should that wish obey) 
 
 That they could dissipate the spleen 
 
 And variegate awhile the scene, 
 
 Now, by a little of pure nature, 
 
 And take, like every other creature 
 
 Who knows the effect of London air, 
 
 And seeks t' enjoy of health a share, 
 
 A trip to renovate the liver 
 
 From town, or up or down the river. 
 
 For her own self she saw no joy 
 
 In sailing in an ugly hoy 
 
 Among a crowd of vulgar people 
 
 Who ne'er were out of sight of steeple, 
 
 Or the high dome of great St. Paul, 
 
 Journeying to Woolwich or Blackwall, 
 
 Deptford was town by far too low, 
 
 And Greenwich, though a pretty show, 
 
 Was filled by nothing but old foggies, 
 
 Who scarce knew aught but what vile grog is, 
 
 And, for her honour or her breath, 
 
 She would not venture on the Heath, 
 
 Though hundreds took their pleasure there, 
 
 It had so bad a character. 
 
 In short, though things were cheaper down, 
 
 And she might even save a crown, 
 
 She'd rather give a double fee 
 
 Like those that love gentility, 
 
IN LONDON. 159 
 
 To see the scenery, beauteous ever, 
 That upward decks the peaceful river. 
 Richmond's fine view she had not seen 
 Nor Royal Kew, nor Turnham Green ; 
 Nor Brentford, pride of Middlesex, 
 A prospect too you may annex, 
 Famous for more than keen elections, . 
 For filth and hogs and mud erections, 
 Which as great George's eyes ran over 
 He sighed " was like his own Hanover ;"* 
 Nor was it right they should stop short 
 Of seeing all at Hampton Court, 
 Where Wolsey lived in royal state, 
 And queen-beheading Henry Eight ; 
 'Twas said they might spend many moons 
 Viewing Raphael's fine cartoons, 
 And all the beauties of the place, 
 From William's maids and wives that grace 
 In painted show the princely wall, 
 To parks and gardens and canal. 
 But by a cheap and simple way 
 They now, she said, in one short day, 
 All these enjoyments might complete, 
 And have a gratifying treat, 
 By sailing upward with the stream 
 Borne by the wondrous power of steam, 
 To Richmond bridge, for shillings three, 
 And when each object they should see, 
 
 * It is said of George the Second, that in passing 
 through Brentford to Windsor, he used to direct his 
 coachman to drive slowly through that town, which it 
 seemed his Majesty loved to contemplate, "it was so 
 like his own Yanover." 
 
160 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And have a dinner at the Garter, 
 And all projected pleasures after, 
 They might, if they preferred it, take 
 An evening stage for comfort's sake, 
 And homeward snugly ride to town, 
 For something about half-a-crown. 
 
 Thus spoke our fair her long oration 
 To take our sage by captivation, 
 As those who, bred in artful school, 
 Know the true way, and best, to rule 
 Is first to try the way to charm us 
 Before they dreadfully alarm us. 
 She spoke, and, as the poets say, 
 Nam'd for the journey the next day, 
 Though it was Sabbath, day of care 
 To parsons, if they relish prayer, 
 And cannot, like the well paid bishop, 
 Get some poor reverend drudge to dish up 
 Some spiritual food for those who keep 
 In town at mother church to sleep. 
 Our sage did not belong, good man ! 
 To parish metropolitan, 
 But gently hinted that the Sunday 
 Should not be thus made a mere fun day, 
 And thought they should defer till Monday ; 
 For though, he said to Ma'am, none better 
 E'er lov'd the sciences and nature, 
 'Twould be in him but ill -befitting 
 To be observ'd in steam-boat sitting, 
 When he should be at holy Church. 
 Though others left her in the lurch. 
 
 To this objection our dear lady 
 Was not without an answer ready ; 
 
IN LONDON. 161 
 
 She said that many of his cloth 
 Were not so very nice, or loth 
 To give themselves, or their dear spouses, 
 A little airing from their houses ; 
 Some -roll'd in coach in Hyde-park drive, 
 Not in a steam-boat fried alive, 
 Which, 'stead of being sin or glory, 
 Might be considered purgatory ; 
 Some spent the sabbath day in sport, 
 And even Bishops bow'd at Court, 
 When curates pray'd and fasted too ; 
 But they must now in London do 
 As others did, and really town, 
 On Sunday was a desert grown ; 
 i Besides, did he not want to study 
 The ways of crowds and every body ? 
 Had they not prov'd most ample gainers, 
 By nicely scanning human manners ? 
 And even Thames and Richmond Hill, 
 With all their charms would look but ill, 
 Without the spell that crowds of faces 
 Give to the very finest places. 
 
 Syntax was silenced, for the sage, 
 Knew what it was thus to engage 
 His wife's sophisticating rattle, 
 When she would have her way, or battle. 
 Ma'am wisely chose the supper hour. 
 For trying thus her arguing power ; 
 And 'twould not do to go to hammock, 
 With fit of anger in the stomach ; 
 So Doctor gave consent at last, 
 And both, soon locked in slumber fast, 
 
 Y 
 
162 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Forgot their by-gone cares and sorrow, 
 And cared not what might hap to-morrow. 
 
 The morn was fine ; or we should say, 
 In splendor rose the new-born day j 
 The day to many a Cockney dear, 
 That comes with promis'd rural cheer, 
 And rural sport, and sight of fields, 
 And all that London's suburb yields, 
 Of gay and soul-reviving spell, 
 And stercoraceous spectacle : 
 To charm the eyes, and set the tongue, 
 And cramped feet of the motley throng, 
 Quick moving to the earnest praise 
 Of what they've seen in other days; 
 And what John Bull and tidy wife, 
 Conceive of happy country life, 
 When forth in pride of ease they fare, 
 To catch the weekly breath of air, 
 In go-cart or in one horse chat, 
 Or humbly padding on the way, 
 Careful the wayward children tending, 
 And many a sage state maxim vending. 
 Ah me ! as pastoral poets say, 
 And thousands echo when the day, 
 Of rest and promised pleasure comes, 
 Wrapt up in clouds, in rain, or glooms, 
 And nought remains the hours to cheer, 
 But pipes, tobacco, and dull beer ! 
 Ah me ! and miserable they, 
 In city thus compell'd to stay, 
 When o'er Augusta's peopled reign, 
 Thoughtless of pining maiden's pain, 
 
IN LONDON. 163 
 
 In subterranean kitchen cooking, 
 Anxious to Sunday all week looking, 
 The weather demon spreads his wings, 
 And crowds of public miseries brings. 
 Ah ! may the sun on that blest day, 
 Ne'er veil the splendour of his ray : 
 May never gloom or drizzling shower, 
 O'er health and joy usurp the power, 
 Spreading ennui, the demon fell, 
 Or sad bespattering beau and belle, 
 When all should feel without controul, 
 A perfect holiday of soul — 
 Though city publicans should grumble, 
 And drunken Jehus cease to rumble. 
 But let us leave the task of prayer, 
 To those who Church's bounties share, 
 And bid the labours of the pen, 
 Attend upon the best of men, 
 And the most prudent loving wife, 
 That parson e'er knew in his life. 
 
 The day, we've said, was fair and bright, 
 And full of promise of delight, 
 When Doctor at the warning hint, 
 Of madam's tongue, as good's a dint 
 To memory's ear, gulped down his tea, 
 And, like a traveller bent on sea, 
 Attentive still to knowledge saving, 
 Provision made for stomachs craving, 
 By stuffing well with belly timber, 
 Those pockets that with spiritual lumber, 
 Were often filled, and graceful showed, 
 He knew to heaven another road, 
 
164 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Than fashion's shirtless tribe pursue, 
 
 The men, sans tail, sans pockets too, 
 
 Sans cash, sans soul, to whom no sinner 
 
 Needs cling, in heaven or earth for dinner. 
 
 This done, and Mrs. Syntax drest 
 
 In travelling trim, with glowing breast, 
 
 And many a red and rosy streak, 
 
 New waken'd on her chubby cheek, 
 
 That vied with ruddiest flower of June, 
 
 The obedient Doctor led her soon, 
 
 To Thames's side, where boatmen ply, 
 
 With finger up and watchful eye, 
 
 And " boat !" " a boat's ?" incessant cry. 
 
 There, floating far along the stream, 
 
 Was seen the ship of smoke and steam, 
 
 Labouring upon the upward tide, 
 
 In painted bloom and gorgeous pride, 
 
 Tuning her liquid step and rattle, 
 
 Like soldiers when they go to battle, 
 
 To deaf ning music's mingled notes, 
 
 And sound of loud and joyous throats, 
 
 Thus onward the Vesuvian queen, 
 Floats, clouding Thames's wave serene, 
 With shades of Phlegethonian hue, 
 Pouring her tides as boiling too, 
 Till Doctor from his bounding wherry, 
 With madam, join'd the crowd so merry, 
 That on the deck of Vulcan's galley, 
 Indulg'd in many a pleasant sally. 
 In truth there was a goodly show, 
 Of beauties in full many a row, 
 With their attendant swaius enamour'd, 
 That all week long at trade had'hammer'd 
 
i b 
 
 i 
 
 a 
 © 
 
 3 
 
IN LONDON. 165 
 
 But happy now, with sabbath cheer, 
 
 Love, and tobacco, steam, and beer, 
 
 They seem'd, though clouds of smoke o'ercast, 
 
 In pure Elysium wrapt at last. 
 
 Some on the benches stretch'd at ease, 
 
 With earnest nose woo'd the cool breeze, 
 
 Some eager sought the vessel's poop, 
 
 With heat and languor like to droop ; 
 
 While others venturous, chose to go, 
 
 Into the murkiest shades below, 
 
 Rather than sit, and in effect, 
 
 Thus to be fried alive on deck. 
 
 Our pair enjoy'd a soothing shade, 
 
 Under a friendly awning made, 
 
 By flag of party colour'd hue, 
 
 More black I ween than red or blue, 
 
 But Mrs. Syntax' sense olfactory 
 
 Was very often most refractory ; 
 
 It seem'd as if the smoke and pitch, 
 
 Had given her nose the sneezing itch, 
 
 And tears, that nought but nipping soot 
 
 Could draw, fell from her eyes to boot ; 
 
 While murmurs that to grief belong, 
 
 Not loud, but deep, employ'd her tongue : 
 
 In vain were shawls and flounces spread, 
 
 She scarce could see of what they're made, 
 
 And even delicious tittle-tattle, 
 
 Was drown'd amid the labouring rattle. 
 
 " This might be joy to cockney women," 
 
 She said., " and such like river seamen ; 
 
 " But for herself, a parson's wife, 
 
 " She ne'er again would for her life, 
 
 " In horrid steam-boat sit her down. 
 
 " Though she should pay a double crown ; 
 
166 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 " She only wished that she was free, 
 " From smoke and strange machinery, 
 " And heat and smell, and noisy clatter, 
 " Polluting both the air and water." 
 
 As when a sybil to the sun, 
 What time the eclipse, dread sight's, begun, 
 Spies through her smok'd and stained glass 
 The darkling shadows as they pass ; 
 So with fix'd eye our reverend seer 
 Views through the sooty atmosphere 
 The scenes that deck the winding way 
 Of Thames in rich and green array ; 
 And thus through medium dim and dark 
 A thousand eyes delight to mark 
 The charms of nature and of art, 
 That beauty to the scene impart ; 
 And well may cockney maiden prize 
 Such sights as fill her longing eyes, 
 And Cockney lover like such charms, 
 For happy Steam both melts and warms. 
 
 Thus from Quebec to Montreal 
 The Yankey steam-boat long and tall, 
 Along the wide St. Laurence sails, 
 Fright'ning the Mohawks and the whales, 
 While in the vessel's ample hold 
 The motley crowds like hedge-hogs roll'd 
 In hammock slung with ropes of leather, 
 Pig snug and bundle all together. 
 
 Our sage who lov'd the picturesque, 
 Look'd on the scenes with mien grotesque, 
 
IN LONDON. 167 
 
 That spite of clouds and steaming fry, 
 Spread their gay charms before the eye, 
 
 In boundless prodigality. 
 
 Scenes that had pleasure's sighs awoke, 
 If they could see them for the smoke, 
 And charms that well might claim the song, 
 Stretch'd in long line the banks along. 
 Her smooth shaven lawns gay Chelsea gave, 
 To deck the borders of the wave, 
 And spread a carpet for the brave ; 
 With charms that still the fancy rouse, 
 Shone through her trees sweet Sion House, 
 And Chiswick, mid her gay parterre, 
 And boats and mud, smil'd heavenly fair; 
 While, as they near and nearer drew, 
 Dawn'd on their rapt and partial view, 
 The gardens and the towers of Kew — 
 Majestic seat of royal pride, 
 That rears o'er Thames's verdant side, 
 Memorials of what sums are spent, 
 To give to royal breasts content. 
 Thy islands green with verdure veiled, 
 Sweet Islewokth ! were not unbeheld, 
 Though envious steam, as zephyrs blew, 
 Her dark clouds o'er thy beauties threw. 
 
 Here, as the fates that rule the fire, 
 And water and combustion dire, 
 Would have it for our pair's relief, 
 And others' equal share of grief, 
 The strong ambition to excel, 
 That forged the enginery of h — 1, 
 When old Appollyon in his ire, 
 First tried to set the waves on fire, 
 
168 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Had kindled some destructive flames, 
 About the beard of Father Thames, 
 Had not the fire and water-mill, 
 Sudden by powerful check stood still, 
 As if the vomiter of smoke, 
 Its black and belching lungs had broke, 
 With crash resounding far below 
 To men and nereids threat'ning woe. 
 But woe was none, except to those 
 Who soil'd in mud their Sunday hose, 
 In rapid effort to get free 
 From ship of fearful enginery, 
 Treading the giddy, narrow plank, 
 To isle, with bending osiers dank, 
 Happy to reach old Thames's bank ! 
 
 So when a stately ship takes fire 
 What terror and confusion dire, 
 Reign 'midst the wild and hurrying crew, 
 Though terra firma smiles in view ! 
 But darker horrors fill the breast 
 When far amid the wat'ry waste, 
 The poor devoted sailor sees 
 The dread flame rise, and the cool breeze 
 That should have borne him to the shore, 
 But fan the horrid blaze the more ! 
 
 With tott'ring step, and trembling limb, 
 Low bending to the water's brim, 
 Our lady trod the plank along, 
 And with the Doctor join'd the throng, 
 That wisely with pedestrian care 
 Journey 'd o'er walks and meadows fair, 
 
IN LONDON. 169 
 
 To Richmond's celebrated Hill, 
 Their stomachs and their eyes to fill. 
 
 To him who with a soul sublime, 
 Has dared the Aonian mount to climb, 
 A rugged job as e'er had sinner 
 To earn at last a scurvy dinner, 
 Even Richmond-hill, so fam'd for " lasses" 
 More fair than even the great Parnassus', 
 Is not a very toilsome thing 
 To those whose nerves the spirit spring, 
 But Doctor Syntax and his wife, 
 Labor'd up hill as if for life, 
 Puffing and blowing as they grumbled, 
 And o'er the unfriendly granite stumbled ; 
 Our sage admiring as he went 
 The prospect rising with the ascent 
 And madam wond'ring what could tempt 
 The folks from common cares exempt, 
 Who love their ease, and need not spoil 
 Their sport to make the kettle boil, 
 Thus on high hills and sides of rivers, 
 To tire their joints and waste their livers ; 
 It would not be a pair of chickens, 
 Or any common finger lickings 
 Would make amends for this hard strain, 
 When once they should the Garter gain. 
 
 At length the summit they attain'd 
 And pausing there their breath regain'd, 
 Then from the hill's romantic brow 
 Gaz'd on the prospect stretch'd below. 
 A beauteous scene as e'er was spread, 
 In Tempe's vale of flower and shade, 
 
170 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And radiance of indulgent sky, 
 To win the heart and charm the eye. 
 Italian groves ! Italian vales ! 
 No more your wonted boast avails : 
 Thames spreads along his wealthy side, 
 A scene that mocks your empty pride ; 
 Here Opulence her fabrics rears, 
 And all a smiling aspect wears ; 
 Each fertile glade, each spot around, 
 With stately palaces are crown'd ; 
 Woods, orchards, villas, there are seen, 
 With varied charms to intervene. 
 While Thames along his winding bed, 
 Thro' many a mazy labyrinth led, 
 Sees wealth and beauty spread the sail, 
 To cheer and deck his lovely vale. 
 
 With raptur'd and poetic eyes, 
 And tongue that spoke his pleas'd surprize, 
 Syntax, who'd roam'd o'er lake and hill, 
 Now gaz'd as he would gaze his fill : 
 The beauties of his former Tour, 
 To those that now his eyes devour, 
 Compar'd, seem'd but a barren heath, 
 Unworthy of his pen or breath : 
 He now had found the Picturesque, 
 And by the labours of his desk, 
 He soon would shew to those who question , 
 His power and Muse's bold suggestion , 
 How much this visit to Parnassus, 
 All other rhyming tours surpasses, 
 Or any rival fool that makes, 
 An idle journey to the Lakes. 
 
IN LONDON. 171 
 
 Superior now the theme he'd handle, 
 As Sol excels a farthing candle, 
 Or Venus with her bloom upon her, 
 Would seem beside a maid of honour ; 
 Or Hercules with gripe unhandy, 
 Would twist about a modern dandy. 
 
 " As o'er these scenes I cast my glance, 
 " I think some wizard of romance, 
 " Calls round him as he waves his wand, 
 " The gayest scenes of fairy-land, 
 " Where health and plenty frolic round, 
 " And beauty decks th' enchanted ground ; 
 " Scenes where the raptured muse could stray, 
 " And dream and loiter life away ;' ' 
 He cried, and hovering Genii made 
 Votive response to all he said. 
 Even Mrs. Syntax, bent to make, 
 By solid round, or joint, or cake, 
 To nature without further jabber, 
 A reparation for her labour, 
 Confess'd the sight was altogether, 
 A pretty thing in summer weather, 
 And that she could enjoy the view, 
 Like other folks a month or two, 
 But she was not one of the gentry, 
 That lov'd on hill-top to keep sentry ; 
 When tempests rattled through the air, 
 And laid the gayest prospects bare. 
 
 Sated at length with nature's beauty, 
 And not unmindful of the duty, 
 Which Mrs. Syntax said they owed, 
 For climbing such a tiresome road , . 
 
172 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 These joys they now resolved to barter, 
 For others at the Star and Garter, 
 So, waxing rather lank and thin, 
 They enter'd next the stately inn ; 
 Where Doctor view'd again with rapture, 
 From window high the ample chapter 
 Spread out of nature's volume, teaching 
 Much more than all his gravest preaching, 
 And madam found before her spread, 
 A prospect that to those unfed, 
 She thought was better worth the heeding, 
 Fraught with the solid means of feeding. 
 
 Down therefore sat our happy pair, 
 And soon made havoc on the fare 
 That he who is no churlish starter, 
 May -find, per die, at Star and Garter, 
 It was no store of humble wallet, 
 That now could please my lady's palate ; 
 Well might the chicken rue the day, 
 That spitted, came in madam's way. 
 No flim-flams now, no thing of feather, 
 Or show of flummery altogether ; 
 Like that on which no wise man reckon'd, 
 When lagging comes in Course the Second, 
 Or frequent decks the table poor, 
 Of proud and vain Restaurateur, 
 Could with re-animated life, 
 Inspire our hungry sage and wife, 
 Who now employ'd a busy knife 
 On those far more substantial matters, 
 That please our English masticators, 
 And give John Bull the strength to thump, 
 All other nations in the lump, 
 
IN LONDON. 173 
 
 And, as in western isles they do, 
 
 The right to preach and flog them too. 
 
 A bottle, and perhaps a pair, 
 Wash'd down this comfortable fare ; 
 And then, for spite of pleasure's call, 
 An hour of reckoning comes to all. 
 The bill came in — As when a ghost, 
 Rais'd from the depth of Stygian coast, 
 From draught and bolus very ill, 
 With his Apothecary's bill 
 In hand, the Doctor to dismay, 
 And point to Styx the shortest way — 
 As when the poor Apothecary, 
 With length'd visage, far from merry, 
 Sees the dread phantom enter in, 
 With the memorial of his sin ; 
 So our good Doctor and his wife, 
 Who ne'er hurt mortal in their life, 
 By aught but labours of the tongue, 
 If that in wife or priest be wrong, 
 Beheld with terror-struck surprise, 
 Uplifted hands, and staring eyes, 
 The unconscious waiter, and each charge, 
 Swelling the bill, so long and large, 
 Unhallowed sight ! I ween would make, 
 The stoutest heart and purse to quake. 
 " Zounds, do you take me for a bishop," 
 Cried Syntax, " that such bills you dish up ? 
 " A sum like this, which here you charge me 
 " Would dine the bench and half the clergy." 
 And madam when her talking power, 
 Return'd to help her in this hour ; 
 
174 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Indignant o'er each item ran, 
 
 And call'd poor Joe a shameless man, . 
 
 Thus like a publican and sinner, 
 
 To charge so monstrously for dinner ; 
 
 She knew where dangled Stars and Garters 
 
 Were high flown things and costly quarters ; 
 
 And from these proofs of courtly feature 
 
 The sooner they were gone the better. 
 
 The bill was paid, though most unwilling, 
 Our lady counting every shilling, 
 With fingers that her rage disposes 
 To scratch some cheeks and pull some noses ; 
 But Syntax sooth'd her with a smile, 
 Reminding, they had dined in style, 
 And they who bear the airs of quality. 
 Must not expect to find frugality. 
 Thus with a dinner and their bill, 
 They left the charms of Richmond Hill. 
 
 Though not in the best tune for sport, 
 They took the way by Hampton Court, 
 And there beheld 'mid Nature's trellises, 
 Of branching oak what splendid palaces, 
 Rise in deserted grandeur lone, 
 Where still might shine Britannia's throne, 
 While sums immense are thrown away, 
 To make fish towns, or brick walls gay, 
 And give to pamper'd royal pride, 
 A score of palaces beside ; 
 Though here 'tis said no place befitting, 
 Is found for royalty to sit in ! 
 They saw where proud puflPd Wolsey sat. 
 And laid his cap and triple hat, 
 
IN LONDON. 175 
 
 And Henry Eight, who lov'd the maids, 
 
 Plann'd mischief for their pretty heads ;* 
 
 They saw too there the beauteous bevy, 
 
 Of dames that grae'd king William's levee, 
 
 Deaf now, alas ! to pleasure's call 
 
 And rudely stuck against the wall, 
 
 Like wither'd witches wan and pale, 
 
 Or the old Cartoons of Raphael, 
 
 Good Mrs. Syntax ne'er profess'd, 
 
 To have a cognoscenti taste ; 
 
 She therefore found but little pleasure, 
 
 In gazing on this royal treasure ; 
 
 And thought that there must be some flaw 
 
 About the sculls of those who saw 
 
 Eternal beauty in the looks 
 
 Of painted porters and of cooks, 
 
 And fellows, that no body knows, 
 
 Often without their needful cloathes — 
 
 Set up on canvas or on paper, 
 
 As princes and as kings to vapour. 
 
 Like those she'd heard of plebeian blood, 
 
 That deck the walls of Holy Rood. 
 
 Finding they would be weary moons 
 
 Gaping on portraits and cartoons, 
 
 And empty domes and ruined walls, 
 
 And lonely parks and green canals, 
 
 She took the Doctor by the arm, 
 
 And tore him off from every charm 
 
 * The royal palace of Hampton Court was built by 
 Cardinal Wolsey, who gave it to Henry VIII. It is 
 decorated with the Cartoons of Raphael, and the por- 
 traits of all the beauties of the reign of William III. 
 
176 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 On which the mind of raptur'd sage, 
 Tracing the long historic page 
 Was like a druid fondly dwelling, 
 And with important precepts swelling. 
 With homeward step they trac'd the scene, 
 And got at length to Turnham Green, 
 Where, when they'd sipp'd a little brandy, 
 They took the stage to town so handy, 
 And roll'd along, so small the expense, 
 To verge of home for eighteen pence ; 
 Where, free to follow her own will, 
 Ma'am e'en forgot her Richmond bill. 
 
 END OF THE SIXTH CANTO. 
 
IN LONDON. 177 
 
 CANTO VII. 
 
 Blest with eternal motion, they, 
 Who ne'er like Titus lost a day ! 
 For if the clay is made the debtor, 
 The night is sure to pay the better ! 
 
 Next day our weary pair reposed, 
 At home till day was nearly clos'd, 
 That is, they were not given to roam, 
 But were and felt themselves at home ; 
 Our lady, as with dames no wonder, 
 Schooling the maids invoice of thunder, 
 When they have nothing else to do, 
 And long arrears come in review ; 
 And Doctor in the Muse's study, 
 With brains and caput rather muddy, 
 Planning his next important work, 
 Not thinking e'en on knife and fork, 
 Till Mrs. Syntax' voice repining, 
 Proclaim'd the lingering hour of dining, 
 And down from lofty classic region, 
 Came learned sage to pick his pigeon. 
 
 A A 
 
178 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 It chanced while this work of dissection 
 Was going on, and Ma'am's complexion 
 Began to brighten, as some faces, 
 Will take the colour of the graces, 
 When pleas'd, or socially unbent, 
 By dinner or a little paint ; 
 And Doctor soon began to find, 
 That there was something in the Wind ; 
 For like the great, our humble Dolly 
 Found that to banish melancholy, 
 If you can find no other way 
 To fright the gloomy hag away 
 'Tis better far to join the people 
 Who carry on their backs no steeple, 
 Than with no other grave excusement, 
 Just hang and drown for mere amusement. 
 Her tongue now glibly ran on all 
 The splendid glories of Vauxhall, 
 Galas, and glittering lights, and glees, 
 And ladies dancing among trees, 
 And all that gives to midnight there, 
 A charm beyond the day's full glare ; 
 A sight, in short, if needs must be, 
 She had not seen and wish'd to see. 
 
 Indulgent to each wish of madam, 
 Like old uxorious simple, Adam, 
 What time in Eden's gay Vauxhall, 
 So very Paradisical, 
 He gave to Eve consent to grapple 
 Forbidden fruit — the luckless apple, 
 That has entail'd, with doom unkind, 
 Such misery on all mankind. 
 
IN LONDON. 179 
 
 Syntax with ready tongue express'd 
 Desire to ease his lady's breast, 
 And though, like Adam, he should fall, 
 To squire sweet Dolly to Vauxhall. 
 
 It chanc'd that eve, or rather night, 
 As was proclaim'd, a gala bright, 
 Was to illumine, as the phrase is, 
 This most delightful of all places. 
 And madam said, they'd better take, 
 A draught of something and a cake, 
 By way of supper in some arbour, 
 Where often loving couples harbour, 
 Within the garden's bound, where, happy, 
 The festive crowds enjoy the nappy, 
 Cramming by way of interlude, 
 A slice of any thing that's good, 
 Corn beef, or ham, or wing of pullet, 
 Down their pleas'd, unobstructing gullet, 
 Till morning, as Lord Byron says, 
 Deposes all the little rays^ 
 That from the throne of lesser spark, 
 Tries to dispel the unkindly dark. 
 
 At proper time, we mean to say, 
 When others are about to lay 
 Their weary heads on slumber's breast, 
 To give to nature downy rest, 
 Our pair, like those who seek the treasure 
 Still promis'd by the phantom pleasure, 
 
 ■ i ■■ - -■■■—■a i . — ■ - ... .1. ., i. ■ 
 
 * ■ The eastern flame 
 
 Rose crimson, and deposed the stars. 
 
 Mazeppa. 
 
180 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Took coach with many a buxom spinster, 
 And o'er the long bridge of Westminster, 
 Roll'd on, till Jarvis set them down, 
 At Vauxhall gate, and sought his crown. 
 This slowly paid, as you may judge, 
 From ma'am with something like a grudge, 
 And entrance fee, or easier ticket, 
 Laid on the ready palm or wicket, 
 Our pair with keen expectant eyes, 
 Prepar'd to meet a sweet surprize. 
 
 ' Nor was their heart's anticipation, 
 Defrauded of its expectation. 
 If thou hast read in youthful days, 
 With sweet enchantment and amaze, 
 Of all the charms, the magic sights, 
 That glitter in Arabian Nights ; 
 The gardens that so fair expand, 
 At touch of necromancer's wand, 
 When with rapt awe and pleasure blended, 
 Aladdin for his lamp descended ; 
 And saw, as fancy still can see, 
 A thousand glories deck each tree, 
 Beauties that charm each youthful sight, 
 Shining amid the wreaths of light, 
 And pleasure's forms, and light feet glancing 
 Of Houris to the music dancing ; 
 Reader, if thy imagination, 
 Can conjure up this sweet creation, 
 And think of all the charm'd surprise 
 That bound the young enthusiast's eyes ; 
 When on the beauteous scene he enter'd, 
 Where all his raptur'd wishes centred, 
 
IN LONDON. 181 
 
 Or if thou'lt but again imagine, 
 When on the prospect so engaging, 
 Thou first set wonder's dazzled eyes, 
 Thine own emotion and surprize, 
 Thou may'st conceive a slender notion, 
 Of our delighted pair's emotion, 
 When sudden burst upon their gaze, 
 From many a glittering walk, the blaze 
 Of bright and many colour'd rays, 
 That sparkled from a thousand lamps, 
 And spite of midnight's cheerless damps 
 Enchantment's fetters threw around, 
 O'er all the bright and fairy ground. 
 You might, as madam said, have seen, 
 In every walk to pick a pin, 
 Except where many a lounging spark, 
 Meets his soul's idol in the dark ; 
 And love that has no need of light 
 To guide his faithful steps aright, 
 Breathes the soft vow in beauty's ear, 
 That loves the tender tale to hear. 
 
 Awhile o'er pleasure's dazzling ground, 
 Like those that trace, in mill-horse round, 
 The giddy, gay arena, spread 
 For frolic's festive train to tread, 
 Our pair without a wish to stray, 
 Beyond their yet unblameless way, 
 Rov'd up and down, and round, observing, 
 All that were walking or were carving 
 The costly slice in box so snug, 
 And handling oft the silver jug; 
 Lovers perhaps their fair ones wooing, 
 By wax-light in the alcoves cooing, 
 
182 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And lest their warmth should be mistaken, 
 Courting their loves with wine and bacon. 
 
 The music next engaged their care, 
 And much did our astonished pair, 
 Like other gazers list and stare, 
 To hear the notes so loud and bland, 
 Warbled from high orchestra's stand, 
 While crowds came rushing round pell m ell, 
 To catch the soft enchanting spell, 
 Gaping with mouths and eyes of wonder, 
 As if conven'd by voice of thunder ; 
 Like those who, without fee or ticket, 
 The natives of the wood and thicket, 
 Throng'd round old Orpheus and his fiddle, 
 When thus with music in the middle, 
 The skilful and old cat-gut scraper, 
 Made even the beasts and trees to caper ; 
 There, while with pleasure gaz'd the throng, 
 A syren with enchanting tongue, 
 On night's dull ear, if aught can be, 
 Dull where there is so much to see, 
 Pour'dto the listening crowd, this lay, 
 To chace the shades of care away. 
 
 SONG. 
 
 VAUXHALL. 
 
 What a happy place for lovers, 
 Is this charming scene, Vauxhall ! 
 
 Smiling beauties, gallant rovers, 
 Here are suited one and all. 
 
IN LONDON. 183 
 
 Here, while others press the pillow, 
 
 Lulled in dull oblivion's sleep, 
 Pleasure's lightsome steps we follow, 
 
 And her cheerful vigils keep. 
 
 From St. James, even to Wapping, 
 
 Here, ye Grandees, and ye Cits, 
 If ye are not fond of napping, 
 
 Ye may have the choice tit bits. 
 
 Law and Physic's sapient sages, 
 
 Leaving learning's arid field, 
 Here find sweeter, fairer pages, 
 
 Than their drier studies yield. 
 
 Here Divinity, perplext, 
 
 Seeking Wisdom's aid, no more — 
 Finds in Wine a pleasing text, 
 
 And his goddess may adore. 
 
 Lovers that attend on beauty ! 
 
 Learn from Love obedient rules — 
 Pleasure is a sort of duty, 
 
 Husbands should not turn to mules. 
 
 Betty Blossom, sweet and pretty, 
 
 As a bar-maid bore the bell, 
 Tom the tailor in the city 
 
 Lov'd her — Tom look'd very well. 
 
 Lovely Betty was no heiress, 
 
 Though she was so very fair, 
 But she'd been my Lady Mayoress, 
 
 Had our Tom been but Lord Mayor. 
 
184 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Betty, like a gay bewitcher 
 
 Once a week at Vauxhall shone, 
 
 And to please her, Tom the stitcher 
 Worked his fingers to the bone. 
 
 They were happy — they were married- 
 (Mark this truth, ye lovers all- — ) 
 
 But their happiness miscarried, — 
 Tom no more went to Vauxhall. 
 
 Captain Dash to please was ready — 
 
 He at love and glory's call 
 Bore away the tailor's lady, 
 
 And now sports her at Vauxhall. 
 
 The vocal music ceas'd, the throng 
 Still fond, impatient rush along 
 To the Rotunda's painted hall, 
 Where, waving high at glory's call, 
 The glittering banners are unfurl'd 
 That spread protection o'er the world ; > 
 And where the train of pastoral Pan, 
 And emblems of fair Scotia's clan, 
 The soul reviving strains renew, 
 That shepherds from their wild pipes blew, 
 And still to valour and to glee, 
 Resound 'mid Scotland's scenery. 
 
 Scarce need we say how quick the hours 
 Flew by, amid these shining bow'rs, 
 And walks with peerless beauty bright, 
 And arches gemm'd with starry light r 
 
IN LONDON. 185 
 
 While here our happy pair were roving, 
 
 For Dolly loved still to keep moving, 
 
 That she might show her face and air 
 
 To all the fashionables there ; 
 
 She lov'd to linger in the blaze 
 
 Of studded crowns, and lamps whose rays 
 
 Show'd off some painter's grand design, 
 
 By glare of such light very fine ; 
 
 While Doctor would have rather given 
 
 A mervedi to shun this heaven 
 
 Of happiness, to his dear wife, 
 
 And leave the scenes of giddy life, 
 
 To sit him down, like poor Jack Horner, 
 
 With the lone Hermit in the corner, 
 
 To pause by gleam of single taper, 
 
 On folly's inconsiderate vapour. 
 
 At length the bell with clanging sound, 
 To all the variegated round, 
 Proclaim'd the tight rope's vaulting hour, 
 And gleaming as from Hero's tower; 
 The blue light shed its glimmering ray, 
 To guide fair Sacqui on her way ; 
 A venturous way — where none need hope, 
 Unless acquainted with the rope, 
 To rival the adventurous fair, 
 At a gay caper in the air. 
 Like one of the light sylphic train, 
 She skims along the narrow plane, 
 Up the high rope's tremendous steep, 
 Her steady balance taught to keep, 
 Till mid a blaze of bursting light, 
 She gains the fearful giddy height, 
 
 B B 
 
186 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Then like the " king of France's men," 
 
 Runs down the dread descent again, 
 
 While rockets gleam, and sticks come down 
 
 Upon the wondering gazers' crown, 
 
 And all admire who share the view, 
 
 What women's feet and limbs can do. 
 
 With walking and with gazing tired, 
 
 And hunger keen at last inspired, .} 
 
 Our pair sat down in box so neat, 
 
 To give themselves a little treat, J 
 
 We'll say their promised slice to eat. 
 
 Before them soon with prodigality 
 
 The wax lights shone to shew their quality. 
 
 While ma'am and Doctor longed to cram 
 
 Their anxious throats with solid ham. 
 
 Before them soon was laid a slice, 
 
 Which some might think was very nice, 
 
 But through whose thin transparent fold, 
 
 You might the distant stars behold, 
 
 And which to any hungry belly, 
 
 Was not much better than a jelly ; 
 
 Another, and another still, 
 
 Must feed the craving ivory mill, 
 
 And still to every keen performer, 
 
 " The last is welcome as the former." 
 
 Next came to please our lady's sight, 
 
 The wine in kettle silver bright ; 
 
 And much they both enjoyed to see, 
 
 Bacchus thus making rosy tea. 
 
 But what more tried their temper's mettle, 
 
 Was now the bill that was to settle, 
 
 For wax lights, ham, and beauteous kettle ! 
 
 Soon as good madam saw the bill 
 
 She star'd and thought on Richmond hill, 
 
• ,WlWbl 
 
 ifi! n*t5' r, ?r, ««m»«j « «i« « ?f» s * 
 
 Si 
 
IN LONDON. 187 
 
 And would have lectur'd the poor waiter 
 If prudent Syntax would have let her, 
 As when she poured a copious flow 
 Of eloquence on Richmond Joe. 
 Alas, alas, that pleasant places 
 Should thus make long and dismal faces, 
 And care and misery's alloy 
 Should mingle thus with all our joy. 
 When bill was paid, for at Vauxhall 
 The travelling credit is but small, 
 And all the beauties of the night, 
 Looked rather odd by morning light, 
 Our sage and spouse with timely care, 
 By help of Jehu's other fare, 
 With many a nod, were home conveyed 
 And on the peaceful pillow laid. 
 
 END OF THE SEVENTH CANTO. 
 
188 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 CANTO VIII. 
 
 Refresh'd our learned Doctor rose, 
 For he had found the sweet repose 
 That softens wearied nature's pain, 
 And gives the life-drop zest again. 
 Kind sleep had also lent its aid, 
 And thrown a sweet oblivious shade 
 O'er Mrs. Syntax, who reclined 
 Disturb'd no more by anxious mind. 
 Her nose indeed a requiem sung 
 To the past labours of her tongue ; 
 But this our Doctor well could brook, 
 For meek and placid was her look. 
 His fairest glories Sol had spread 
 To charm our slumberers from their bed. 
 At length the usual hour drew near 
 That welcom'd in their morning cheer. 
 With gentle force he sought to rouse 
 The sense quiescent of his spouse, 
 In playful accents smiling chid 
 As mov'd her eye's recumbent lid, 
 
JN LONDON. 189 
 
 For rancour never wrung his breast, 
 And seldom was his visage dress'd 
 In other traits than those serene 
 Which to his sacerdotal mien 
 Imparted a benignant air 
 That spoke his mission and his care. 
 
 The breakfast done, our Doctor's mind 
 Revolved anew on human kind. 
 To learn, to study, and explore, 
 And thus enrich his mental store, 
 With all that lures in pleasure's field 
 And all antiquity could yield ; 
 He straight resolved the coming hour 
 Should be devoted to the Tower, 
 Which all must see, who come to town, 
 And all may search for — half a crown ; 
 Where Britain's power and ancient pride, 
 In gloomy silence still abide, 
 And rude mementos of the past 
 Pourtray the nature, form, and cast 
 Of times renown'd for chivalry, 
 Domestic feuds, and tyranny ; 
 And where the simple country scions 
 Delight to go to see the Lions : 
 Ah ! simple youths ! with looks abash'd, 
 Who wish not to be rudely splash'd, 
 Pray do not seek to see them washed, 
 For oft sea monsters that devour, 
 Lurk near the confines of the Tower. 
 
 Impress'd with this design, he plann'd 
 A boat should waft them from the Strand, 
 
190 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Near where the bridge of Waterloo, 
 
 Delights the wond'ring gazer's view. 
 
 Conducted then by our relation 
 
 To the fam'd spot of embarkation 
 
 Behold -our pair upon the tide, 
 
 Directed by a skilful guide, 
 
 Whose oars the lucid surface lave, 
 
 That dipping cut the gentle wave, 
 
 Or pois'd in air delight the sight 
 
 With beaming drops of silv'ry light. 
 
 Fixed was their gaze where England's pride 
 
 In architectural pomp and stride 
 
 Surpasses all the world can shew, 
 
 Triumphant record of the blow 
 
 That humbled Gallia to the dust, 
 
 And all her daring projects crush'd ; 
 
 When from Napoleon's laurell'd head 
 
 The diadem imperial fled ; 
 
 Ah ! thought our sage, how just to raise 
 
 A lasting record of our praise, 
 
 How well conceived ! How useful too ! 
 
 The splendid bridge of Waterloo ! 
 
 Enraptur'd with the mighty plan, 
 
 From arch to arch his vision ran, 
 
 The doric column, balustrade, 
 
 The fabric horizontal laid 
 
 With sparkling granite that would seem 
 
 To mock the march of time supreme : 
 
 He mark'd the craft that buoyant rode, 
 
 Adown the tide that rapid flowed, 
 
 Or spurn'd the strong propelling flood, 
 
 And labouring brav'd the surf and scud ; 
 
 The buildings which the margin liil'd, . - 
 
 Where art and industry combin'd 
 
IN LONDON. 191 
 
 To spread commercial blessings far, 
 
 And train the young aspiring tar 
 
 To scorn the perils of the sea, 
 
 Or guide the vessel's destiny ; 
 
 And nymphs who sought 'neath shady trees, 
 
 To catch the soft reviving breeze ; 
 
 Or ventur'd from the grassy land, 
 
 (Like guardian naiads of the Strand) 
 
 The gaily painted barks to gain, 
 
 That held each fond impassion'd swain ; 
 
 Revealing as they hasty skim, 
 
 The slender foot, and well shap'd limb, 
 
 And all that kindles with the sight 
 
 The rapturous thrill of soft delight. 
 
 The yielding boat her prow advanced, 
 And lightly o'er the waters glanc'd ; 
 And soon on Syntax' active sight 
 That beam'd with pleasure and delight, 
 The pond'rous iron structure rose, 
 That Southwark o'er the river throws : 
 Whose arches fill the mind with awe, 
 And universal praises draw ; 
 Dark Southwark's pride, and highest fame, 
 That only lacks Trafalgar's name. 
 Our Doctor's philosophic mind, 
 By nature and research design'd, 
 Delights with anxious care to trace 
 Improvement's graduated race ; 
 The rapid motion of the tide, 
 The water- works, and bridge beside, 
 That claim the city's special care, 
 And her familiar title bear. 
 
192 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 But soon the current swiftly drew, 
 To objects of a different hue ; 
 Our venturous pair with fear beheld, 
 The stream with angry force impell'd, 
 Terrific rushing through the way, 
 That claims the boatman's utmost sway ; 
 For death and danger lurk amid, 
 The rocks and piles in eddies hid, 
 Where London's clumsy structure rears, 
 The mould'ring wreck of former years. 
 Undaunted by the threat'ning view, 
 The guide resolv'd to venture through, 
 The narrow span-supporting ridge, 
 That marks the form of London bridge. 
 
 As arrow shot from Tartar's bow, 
 The wherry dips her pliant prow, 
 Now bending to her watery bed, 
 Now mounting high her pointed head. 
 With anxious look a gazing throng 
 Crowding the narrow bridge along, 
 From parapet surveyed the while 
 The venturous wherry shoot the pile. 
 Descending to the gulph profound 
 She cleared the starlings at a bound, 
 And would have glided light as feather 
 On ocean's breast in summer weather, 
 Into the smooth untroubled flood, 
 Had Doctor sat in tranquil mood, 
 But unaccustomed to such sinking, 
 With more than usual tremour, thinking 
 Into the bathos he was getting, 
 And that the vessel was upsetting, 
 
M 
 3 
 
 H 
 a 
 
IN LONDON. 193 
 
 He made a sudden stretch — a reach, 
 As to the fishes he would preach, 
 Hoping mayhap to catch a starling, 
 And closely hug it as his darling, 
 But'plump'd into the tide, like porpus, 
 Almost ere Dolly miss'd his corpus. 
 Then loud the shrieks from Dolly rose, 
 Dipping in Thames her own dear nose, 
 While crowds along the bridge repeat 
 Her shrieks, and cries of Doctor's fate 
 Resounded through all Billingsgate. 
 
 Thrice lucky they, when in the flood, 
 Whose caput seems as made of wood, 
 Or have lucky, to rely on, 
 As good a jacket as Amphion, 
 For Dolphins now, as far's we know. 
 Above the Bridges or below, 
 Instead of keeping folks from sinking, 
 Are only seen as signs for drinking. 
 No beauteous native of the tide 
 Offer'd our sage a friendly ride — 
 Where were ye, Tritons ! Nereids all ! 
 Ye did not hear poor Syntax call — 
 Ah ! what could deafen or could spite ye ? 
 Hag as thou art, old Amphitrite ! 
 For neither were ye, gipsies, playing 
 Near London Bridge, or idly straying 
 Along the banks of Thames's river 
 Where barges fish or coals deliver- 
 But left the sage, a son of glory, 
 To be picked up like John a Dory, 
 By boatmen's hands, in dripping state, 
 And carried into Billingsgate ; 
 
 c c 
 
194 DOCTOK SYNTAX 
 
 There at the Dolphin and the Whale 
 
 That spout for ever cheerful ale, 
 
 To dry like haddock at the fire 
 
 And drink strong cordials, and perspire, 
 
 Till half the little flesh he boasted 
 
 Was from his bones most kindly roasted, 
 
 And Mrs. Syntax came, so tender, 
 
 To be his comfort and defender. 
 
 What's good for one that's dripping wet ? 
 A suit that's dry, or a warm sweat. 
 What's fit for stomach that is cold ? 
 A glass of wine, or Stingo old. 
 What does a hungry man delight in ? 
 A piping beef-steak or a whiting.* 
 For wigless, hatless mortal, what ? 
 A wig that's new, and likewise, hat . 
 " What is good for bootless bene" ?-f 
 What but a pair of boots, I ween. 
 Thus Doctor having been restored, 
 From chance of falling overboard , 
 Glad it was still within his power, 
 Again set forward to the Tower. 
 But wisely now resolved to keep, 
 On firmer footing than the deep, 
 Convinced that man's no alligator, • 
 He vowed to trust no more the water. 
 
 Next Syntax view'd the Custom's pile, 
 That ornaments ourfavour'd isle; 
 
 * Vide the Billingsgate dictionary, 
 t Wordsworth. 
 
IN LONDON. 195 
 
 Where, from all regions, commerce showers, 
 
 The quota of her golden hours ; 
 
 Whose lofty front and branching wings, 
 
 To Doctor's laden mem'ry brings, 
 
 The choice descriptions he had read, 
 
 When Greece by nurturing science led, 
 
 Display'd her love of arts and skill, 
 
 And woo'd the muses, to instill 
 
 Refinement through the vulgar throng, 
 
 And charm the world with classic song. 
 
 'Twas then that Architecture rose, 
 
 Triumphant o'er domestic woes, 
 
 And heedless of the mortal strife, 
 
 That drank in human blood and life. 
 
 The cause of kings — an empty name, 
 
 Ambition's offspring — martial fame ! 
 
 Superior to such deadly bane, 
 
 She rear'd the costly dome and fane ; 
 
 In majesty and grandeur threw, 
 
 Her wonder working arts anew, 
 
 And to succeeding ages gave, 
 
 The finish'd column's architrave, 
 
 And all that claims the sculptor's arts, 
 
 And grace and dignity imparts. 
 
 Delighted with the view to find, 
 
 So much accorded with his mind, 
 
 He scarcely saw the busy throng, 
 
 The motley group that pass'd along. 
 
 Intently fix'd on hope of gain, 
 
 The sweet reward of toiling pain : 
 
 Till rudely mov'd, for in the way, 
 
 His lingering step unconscious lay. 
 
 At length commingling with the crowd, 
 
 Which ingress sought, aud worth allow'd, 
 
196 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 He paced the Long Room's ample floor 
 Admir'd its attitude and store, 
 Of every service that combine, 
 To shew its purpose and design. 
 
 And now the fine and beauteous day, 
 Advancing warn'd him of delay ; 
 His footsteps bent towards the Tower, 
 That first had claim'd th' attentive hour y 
 Landmark of ancient strength that stands, 
 And London's eastward scite commands ; 
 Whose lofty turrets, soaring high, 
 Attract afar the wondering eye ; 
 Ope wide your portals ! for a sage, 
 The boast and glory of his age, 
 Now comes in all the pomp of lore, 
 To scrutinize, remark, explore, 
 Whate'er his ardent mind may deem,- 
 Deserving critical esteem. 
 
 ■& 
 
 At length the Tower before him rears, 
 Her fabric of departed years, 
 Primeval with the earliest date 
 That gave importance to the state. 
 The yawning moat, the bastions strong, 
 The cannon rang'd in line along, 
 The walls' stupendous front and form, 
 And posterns which defy the storm 
 Of martial force or rabble mix'd ; 
 The Spur gate high, an outwork fix'd 
 To guard against assault, surprize, 
 In all their varied shapes arise, 
 While from behind the lofty spire, 
 And regal vane, where rooks aspire, 
 
IN LONDON. 
 
 To raise a royal progeny; 
 
 And like the modern destiny 
 
 Of Britain's princes of renown, 
 
 Secure succession to the crown ; 
 
 The gloomy battlements which throw? 
 
 A murky shade on all below, 
 
 The Observatory placed on high, 
 
 And Drawbridge pointing to the sky, 
 
 In unison engross the scene, 
 
 And shew its warlike strength and mien. 
 
 The barrier pass'd and ingress found, 
 
 In endless order rise around, 
 
 New objects for our sage's note, 
 
 In after page to shew or quote. 
 
 The huge portcullis firmly chain'd, 
 
 His first remark and wonder gain'd ; 
 
 The sentinel and warder too, 
 
 Attract his scrutinizing view : 
 
 The last submissive points the way, 
 
 That leads to each long sought display ; 
 
 But first must Syntax' scanty purse, 
 
 The state and servant reimburse. 
 
 The penance Syntax heeded not, 
 
 Though much beyond the thrifty groat, 
 
 But madam blam'd in terms diffuse, 
 
 The venal, strange, and sad abuse, 
 
 That public men should meanly claim, 
 
 An impost on their country's fame, 
 
 And thus an obstacle upraise, 
 
 To needy worth, forbid to gaze 
 
 Upon the nation's works of art, 
 
 That shew her greatness, and impart 
 
 A thirst for glory and renown, 
 
 The fulcrum that upholds the crown, 
 
 19T 
 
198 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Advancing next, the Traitor's gate* 
 Unfolds in low and murky state, 
 The careful pass that once convey'd, 
 And 'neath the axe remorseless laid, 
 The daring form that spurn'd to show, 
 Respect for rank or power below ; 
 Or Patriot who by ardour driv'n, 
 Would save the state, or rise to Heav'n ; — 
 The gate misnamed, through which before 
 Went Sidney, Russell, Raleigh, More, 
 Who struggling in their country's cause, 
 Upheld her liberty and laws, 
 And on the scaffold firmly stood, 
 To seal the effort with their blood. 
 The Bloody Tower's dismaying walls, 
 To Syntax' active thought recalls 
 Ambitious Glo'ster's frightful deed, 
 That youth and innocence decreed 
 To perish, at the midnight hour, 
 Beneath the ruthless ruffian's power. 
 The Armouries next engaged his care, 
 Where all that's ancient, costly, rare, 
 And curious in the art of killing, 
 May be examined for a shilling. 
 The trophies won from haughty Spain 
 Minute and long attention gain ; 
 The blessings for our isle intended 
 When to the yoke our necks were bended 
 Of fell remorseless Inquisition, 
 Relentless fiend of dark perdition, 
 That takes in human pangs delight, 
 And gives the soul to endless night. 
 
 * Alias, the water-gate. 
 
IN LONDON. 199 
 
 The thumb screws and the dread cravat 
 That horrid hands have fitted pat 
 To agonising wretch, who smarts 
 'Neath Superstition's cruel arts, 
 Because, perhaps, he will not own 
 That wine and bread are blood and bone ; 
 Or that a very brilliant flight 
 Of angels on a summer night 
 Did from Jerusalem kindly carry 
 The famous house of Lady Mary ; 
 Or haply, 'cause he could not pay 
 To have his errors wash'd away, 
 By a most wonderful solution, 
 That cunning priests call absolution, 
 And which they say fits greatest sinners, 
 With saints to take celestial dinners. 
 
 To show the great Armada's fate 
 Fits not the muse's present state, 
 Her object is but to declare 
 What most engrossed our Doctor's care. 
 The vice upon his thumb applied 
 The strain and pressure feebly tried, 
 Convinc'd him of the painful throes 
 Resulting from its galling close. 
 The steel cravat he fain would try 
 Upon a dandy lounging nigh, 
 But other subjects claim'd his care 
 Than those who bask in fashion's glare. 
 The Queen, whose love the people had 
 In panoply majestic clad ; 
 The dreadful axe that drank the life 
 Of Harry Tudor's lovely wife 
 The fair Anne Boleyn, held by fame 
 A noble, and a virtuous dame, 
 
200 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 The sacrifice to kingly lust 
 
 In memory upheld accurst, 
 
 Excite his wonderment and praise, 
 
 And further urge his prying gaze 
 
 As passing on the range to see 
 
 Of mounted kings arm'd cap-a-pee ; 
 
 The Ordnance office to the right 
 
 (A stately pile) engross'd his sight, 
 
 The anxious clerks the windows lin'd 
 
 To mark the sagest of mankind 
 
 For they had heard of Syntax's name 
 
 His pious worth and matchless fame. 
 
 He mark'd too where the beauteous Grey* 
 
 In dark and lonely prison lay, 
 
 Where still her hand upon the walls 
 
 Her hapless name and fate recalls, 
 
 Torn from the scenes she loved so well, 
 
 To deck a throne and press a cell ; 
 
 Crown'd but to die, and ah ! that death, 
 
 To sink the dreadful axe beneath, 
 
 While to add horrors to her fate 
 
 Her husband's corse in bleeding state, 
 
 Is borne along within her view, 
 
 Headless, like phantoms that pursue 
 
 With past delight and present sorrow, 
 
 The wretch that shall not see the morrow. 
 
 * Lady Jane Grey. She was beheaded on the green 
 in front of the chapel in the Tower. In her way to the 
 scaffold, she passed the bloody corpse of her husband 
 Guilford Dudley, (not the Earl of Guilford, as the 
 Rev. Mr. Dibdin, Lord Spencer's librarian, will have it 
 in his expensive Bibliographical Decameron, but) the 
 fourth son of the Duke of Northumberland. Lord 
 Spencer has a fine, and the only, original picture of her, 
 painted by Lucas de Heere, the year before her execu- 
 tion, while with her father and mother at Brodegate in 
 Leicestershire. Her hand-writing is still visible on the 
 walls of her prison. 
 
IN LONDON. 201 
 
 The prison where fair Lady Jane 
 
 Pour'd lonely forth her plaints in vain, 
 
 Now, mark how time in change abounds, 
 
 Resounds full oft with other sounds, 
 
 Than those in sorrowing strain that part 
 
 From a deserted female heart — 
 
 Here now far merrier minds do duty 
 
 To England's pride and much lov'd beauty. 
 
 The scite of this fair dame's awards 
 
 Is now the mess-room of the guards, 
 
 Where England's beef is made to feel 
 
 The power of sharp and valiant steel, 
 
 And those who wealth and fame inherit 
 
 In quarters snug tip off the claret. 
 
 The Jewel Office too, where shine 
 
 The costly treasures of the mine, 
 
 That Britain's splendid state adorn, 
 
 And gild her sovereign's royal horn, 
 
 Our pair with curious eyes beheld ; 
 
 — Saw where a maniac once, impell'd 
 
 Like many a one of more renown, 
 
 Strove to obtain the envied crown. 
 
 The ornaments of splendid worth 
 
 Preserv'd for pomp and kingly birth, 
 
 They marked, and though the things were bright, 
 
 Were not much better for the sight. 
 
 Along the rooms by muskets lin'd 
 And other arms ingenious twin'd 
 Into a thousand fancied shapes, 
 Which here the witch of Endor apes, 
 They paced to see the means of war 
 And many a fray and bloody jar — 
 d n 
 
202 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 The instruments and various ways 
 Which men invent to end their days. 
 Here the fell Hydra's scaly vest, 
 And there Medusa's snaky crest 
 Attract in turn our sage's eye, 
 And gain approving scrutiny. 
 They saw, now quiet as a lamb, 
 The mighty sword of Davy Gam, 
 Who boldly did its blade entrench 
 In sculls of the audacious French, 
 Fighting amid the bloody fray 
 Of Agincourt's illustrious day.# 
 Next through the crowd of warlike kings 
 They rove, whose splendid pageant brings 
 A visioned race with deeds that shine 
 From earliest age to Brunswick's line. 
 They pass before the memory's eye 
 Like Banquo's ghastly pageantry, 
 Stretching along the extensive room, 
 To crack of joists instead of doom. 
 
 These objects viewed as we have said, 
 And proper observations made, 
 By Doctor, who was rather fond 
 Of using terms somewhat beyond 
 His darling Dolly's comprehension, 
 Of which we need not here make mention, 
 For he was a philosopher, 
 And Madam — we'll gloss over her, — 
 
 * The exploits of " Davy Gam, Esq." are alluded 
 to by Shakespeare in his Henry V. ; but Hume, who 
 loves to deal in generalities, passes over them without 
 mention. 
 
IN LONDON. 203 
 
 Our pair who now were rather sated 
 
 Of seeing things long celebrated, 
 
 Like patriot loosed from gripe of power, 
 
 Now turned their backs upon the Tower, 
 
 And having just by way of hint 
 
 Had a few glances at the Mint, 
 
 Where Britain pays for coining guineas 
 
 Not one of which now ever seen is, 
 
 And Matt, the master, pockets clear 
 
 For nought, twelve thousand pounds a year, 
 
 And a poor vain Italian clown, 
 
 Has stamped his name to Britain's crown, 
 
 Our couple now who still could boast, 
 
 Like angel on a desert coast, 
 
 A splendid shilling lingering in 
 
 The fold of purse now rather thin, 
 
 To lumbering hackney now betook them, 
 
 And though it rather rudely shook them, 
 
 Through rags and Jews and streets, where float 
 
 Full many a cap and petticoat, 
 
 Pursu'd at length their homeward road 
 
 And reach'd their fashionable abode. 
 
 END OF THE EIGHTH CANTO. 
 
204 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 CANTO IX, 
 
 To Science now we turn our gaze 
 And give a portion of our lays 
 To her who sheds a cheering light 
 To guide frail Nature's steps aright ; 
 And to the highly favour'd few 
 Who bring those treasures to the view 
 Of which fair Science keeps the keys 
 And oft unlocks by slow degrees- 
 Delightful mother of all knowledge, 
 More than is even taught at college, 
 Thy paths are rather tangled oft, 
 And puzzling to the head that's soft, 
 And many a brain's bewilder'd been 
 Thy various gleams and toils between, 
 And many a candidate for fame, 
 Has own'd the influence of thy name, 
 Though haply he had little store 
 Of thy most valuable lore, 
 Yet art thou a benignant friend,* 
 A guide to succour and defend, 
 
IN LONDON. 205 
 
 The human race, who without thee 
 A hapless, motley crowd would be. 
 
 The visit which our Doctor next, 
 Still sticking to his prying text, 
 Intent through every thing to pore 
 And gather rare and useful lore, 
 Was to the London Institution, 
 Where learning lives by contribution. 
 Though oft, too oft, our man so holy 
 Was doomed to hear from tongue of Dolly 
 Full many a lecture, we may tell, 
 Keen, and delivered very well, 
 Yet still he wished some learned oration 
 To hear from those who fill the station 
 Of grave instructors, doctors wise, 
 Who speak as if all learning lies 
 Within the compass of their skull 
 They seem so confident and full, 
 And who perform the offices 
 Of high priests to the sciences. 
 
 Thus with a mind bent to explore 
 And art and science to adore, 
 Syntax expressed his resolution 
 Of visiting the Institution, 
 To spouse, who loved to shew her face 
 At every gay and public place, 
 And who like other ladies fair, 
 Made it her most especial care 
 To see and hear with pleased attention 
 Whate'er surpassed her comprehension, 
 For ladies now will e'en command 
 Things that they do not understand. 
 
206 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 JNo wonder then the fair ones learn 
 
 To lecture warmly in their turn, 
 
 When taught to beat their horrid cross drum 
 
 By the Gamaliels of the rostrum. 
 
 Pleased was our lady to attend 
 
 The Doctor, thus their ears to lend 
 
 To the renowned, enlightened oracle 
 
 Who oft descants so oratorical 
 
 On chemistry and all the arts, 
 
 That shew you the component parts 
 
 Of whatsoe'er in earth or air 
 
 Employs the mind's enquiring care, 
 
 And how ingredients are compounded, 
 
 And likewise how they are confounded. \ 
 
 Ma'am thought no study could be better 
 For house-wives, who in frugal fetter, 
 Are forced to mix all kind of matter, 
 To make a decent shew at table 
 And stop complaint and hungry gabble ; 
 Those virtuous wives whose minds are far 
 From raising an intestine war^= 
 In husbands' or in children's belly 
 By cordial draught or tart or jelly ; 
 And hoping thus to gather store 
 Of such profound domestic lore, 
 From lecture at the Institution 
 To keep and mend the constitution, 
 
 * The stomach cramm'd from every dish, 
 
 A tomb of boiled and roast, and flesh and fish, 
 Where bile, and wind, and phlegm, and acid jar 
 And all the man is one intestine war. 
 
 Pope's Imitation of Homer, B. 2. Satire %. 
 
 \ 
 

IN LONDON. 207 
 
 She said she longed already for 
 The art of bottle conjuror ; 
 And Syntax and his rib so nice 
 Set out for Moorfields in a trice. 
 
 A goodly company they found 
 The lecturer assembled round, 
 Philosophers bred in the city 
 And wives and misses in committee, 
 Listening to the great doctor's story 
 Who now held forth in all his glory, 
 Like quack amid his laboratory, 
 Putting full many a harmless phial 
 And spirit to a fiery trial. 
 
 Our happy couple took their place 
 With a becoming modest grace, 
 While from his rostrum the expounder 
 With aspect sage, and still profounder* 
 Remark on all that nature yields 
 Amazed the wisest in Moorfields. 
 Like Saturn, oft not over clear, 
 In his own cloudy atmosphere, 
 With phial now — and now with stick 
 He bade defiance to old Nick,"}' 
 
 * Sinking from thought to thought, a vast profound — 
 Plunged for his sense, but found no bottom there. 
 
 Dunciad. 
 
 •f Rosy and reverend, though without a gown, 
 Bland and familiar to the throne he came. Ib. 
 
 Out he held his stick. 
 
 Threatening to send old Ocean to Old Nick." 
 
208 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 He told them how the world was made ~\ 
 
 As if he'd regularly been bred > 
 
 To the old planet making trade ; J 
 
 And show'd them how without complaints 
 
 The atoms and the elements 
 
 Contrive to keep on terms together 
 
 Through all variety of weather ; 
 
 How ooean's waves recoil, how fire 
 
 Not over modest, will retire 
 
 From water, which leads one to think 
 
 'Tis what it does not like to drink. 
 
 Then he'd varieties of gasses 
 Which no philosopher surpasses 
 Some that produced most strange effects 
 Upon the nerves of either sex 
 One that if you but take a' dose* 
 A sweet delirium bestows 
 To dullest alderman gives wit 
 And to despair a laughing fit ; 
 Some that were much disliked by cats 
 And others good for killing rats 
 If you could get them but to take 
 A draught from the curst brimstone lake ; 
 He had most wonderful potations 
 And strong preventive fumigations/f' 
 
 * Nitrous Oxyd, or laughing gas. 
 
 * Yeast and porter have been recommended by some 
 physicians as effective in the cure of fever. A celebrated 
 lecturing doctor, has publicly stated that a penny-worth 
 of salt, and a penny-worth of vitriol, (the doctor means 
 oil of vitriol, or sulphuric acid) would always operate 
 as a preventive against fever by being applied as a fumi- 
 gation. A little nitre and a little sulphur answer the 
 same purpose. 
 
IN LONDON. 209 
 
 Drawn from profound and " yeasty deep" 
 
 Would all disease at distance keep, 
 
 And drive old Febris from the frame 
 
 If with his shaking fits he came. 
 
 How oxygen and hydrogen 
 
 Kindly make water o'er again ; 
 
 And how like him if you are wise 
 
 You may each substance analyze 
 
 Before you venture to apply it 
 
 To hungry appetite in diet, 
 
 He taught them by experiment, 
 
 Though some might think this time mis-spent. 
 
 He showed how ladies, too, with ease 
 Could give themselves what airs they plesea, 
 Without the aid of fan or fortune, 
 If they could only but make certain 
 Of the arcana he was showing 
 Which would long keep their lungs agoing, 
 For oft the stomach they would find 
 Was like a bag-pipe full of wind, 
 And growled and grumbled like a hag 
 The more you pressed upon the bag ; 
 They need not care for handsome fellows 
 To blow of life the anxious bellows, 
 For without aid of plaguey men 
 They might subsist on oxygen : 
 He called then for a bottle of air 
 With as much sang froid, I declare 
 As when I am dispos'd to dine 
 I call for my Falemian wine, 
 But very few would taste his stuff, 
 The belles seem'd to have airs enough 
 
 E E 
 
210 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Already, and though learned men 
 May live on windy oxygen, 
 Those who are used to good roast beef 
 Prefer more permanent relief. 
 The Doctors servant therefore got 
 The contents of the aerial pot, 
 A light and rarifying fare 
 Adapted well to keep him spare. 
 
 To prove how far his wondrous gas 
 Did all medicaments surpass 
 By doctors used in art of healing, 
 And for restoring proper feeling, 
 He said he would now if they please 
 Explain some of its properties 
 On those who laboured with complaints ; 
 Even sinners it would turn to saints, 
 And if their wickedness was over, 
 Like patients cured, they would recover ! 
 Miss Betty Blowsy had a bump 
 Upon her back in form of hump 
 It was not true 'twas on her rump. 
 This bump so threw her in the lurch 
 She could not go to fair or church, 
 And was of looks so much afraid, 
 She scarcely could hold up her head, 
 Though ladies now, like walking stack, 
 Shew all a hump upon their back 
 The better haply to conceal 
 What 'tis not proper to reveal. 
 Be this howe'er as it may prove 
 To those who humps and hunch-backs love 
 He happy was thus to declare 
 That by a bottle of his air, 
 
IN LONDON. 211 
 
 Miss Betty's hump soon disappear'd ; 
 
 The fair was from incumbrance clear'd ; 
 
 This wondrous cure they all could tell, 
 
 And therefore Bet. was very well* 
 
 It chanced a grave hoi'se doctor too, 
 
 Who this same Betty Blowsy knew, 
 
 Was troubled oft with spasms and gripes 
 
 Making strange war among his tripes ; 
 
 To quiet this internal ferment 
 
 Which threatened premature interment 
 
 He took a bottle of this gas 
 
 Which proved the farrier was no ass, 
 
 And from the moment that he took it 
 
 The poor horse doctor better looked ; 
 
 The oxygen had not miscarried 
 
 For he and Betty soon were married. 
 
 Some wits might smile, but he must say 
 Speaking as those Who know the way, 
 Great nature's secrets to discover 
 And glance her fertile wonders over, 
 'Twould be a most desired invention, 
 Deserving commendable mention, 
 And likewise to the state and nation 
 A profitable speculation, 
 To bottle up at proper times 
 The healthful airs of various climes, 
 Which some benevolent peripatetic 
 Might do, and under seal hermetic, 
 
 So watchful Bruin forms with plastic care 
 Each growing lump, and licks it to a bear. 
 
 Dunciad. 
 
212 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Bring them to this or other states 
 
 Where baneful air disease creates, 
 
 And thus let those who need such breath, 
 
 Keep off th' approach of grisly death. 
 
 In some snug box, like cit's retreat, 
 
 A mile from town, and very neat, 
 
 Or cell as close as warm bee-hive, 
 
 The invalid might keep alive, 
 
 By help of bottle after bottle 
 
 Though death be threatening him to throttle ; 
 
 Or you might now and then let in 
 
 By aid of friendly tube and pin 
 
 In gentle stream to his warm nest 
 
 The very air that he loves best. 
 
 Or, said the learned and lecturing sage, 
 
 What glory 'twould be to this age 
 
 Of vast improvement and all kind 
 
 Of knowledge which we call refin'd 
 
 And strange experiments to boot, 
 
 Were some of those great firms who shoot 
 
 Their gas pipes underneath the soil 
 
 To carry light for many a mile, 
 
 Pipes for pure ether to expand 
 
 To whatsoever distant land 
 
 Could boast the purest healthiest breezes 
 
 And kindly bring them home to ease us. 
 
 Ah ! then what luxury it would be 
 
 Gently to suck in with your tea 
 
 Such sweet congenial airs as fann'd 
 
 The fragrant plant in native land ! 
 
 What joy in snow climes to inhale 
 
 The bland breath of fair Persia's vale! 
 
 What joy to sit and borrow here 
 
 The breath of western hemisphere ! 
 
IN LONDON. 213 
 
 How sweet to wand'rers from the groves, 
 Where pleasure still with freedom roves, 
 To raptured sense again to bring 
 The gales that waft the orange spring ! 
 This would be worth the schemer's care, 
 But all these projects are but air. 
 
 Next with Galvanic apparatus 
 He'd undertake even to inflate us, 
 Though life's last spark was at the door 
 And make us lively as before. 
 By help of his electric art 
 Strange feelings too he could impart, 
 Strange sights and scenes could place before 'em 
 They scarce would venture to explore 'em 
 Imprimis, would they have a dance 
 Of poor dead frogs, as good as France 
 E'er showed on gridiron or in mire 
 Leaping at touch of thrilling wire, 
 Or his glass battery he would put on 
 And galvanize a leg of mutton, 
 Could make a dead bull's head to roar, 
 As loud as e'er it did before, 
 Nay, were it not for people's talking 
 He'd set all Warwick-lane a walking, 
 And make the butchers run as hunted 
 By gory forms of legs well stunted. 
 Delightful Galvanism ! he cried 
 Restored by thee, even rogues who died 
 Upon the gallows, have again 
 Play'd o'er their, thievish tricks amain 
 And spite of gibbets and Old Bailey 
 Kept up the game of life so gaily. 
 
214 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 A secret greater still he next 
 Made the fit subject of his text, 
 A secret which each fair to hear 
 Instant pricked up an anxious ear ; 
 Howe'er, it proved, his strange relation 
 Concerned no female reputation, 
 But to the church (" God bless the mark," 
 The well paid parsons and the clerk) 
 The Doctor's secret was directed, 
 And therefore should be much respected, 
 He had devised a glorious plan 
 By which the church and mind of man 
 Would be considerably enlightened, 
 If people would not but be frightened. 
 His light he said would far surpass 
 All got from vile coke making gas, 
 Or any of the strange new lights 
 Which give the bishops such sad frights, 
 Then with a phosphorus match in hand 
 And lighted flame he took his stand, 
 With look more pious than before 
 And scanning the high chimneys o'er, 
 To show the object of his plan 
 On fabric Metropolitan, 
 He said he would with such a spark 
 Leave all the gas-lights in the dark, 
 And light up to its topmost walls 
 The splendid dome of great St. Paul's, 
 And show a bright and beauteous flame 
 Which should but differ in the name 
 From Sol, when he is pleased to shine 
 And would not this be very fine ? 
 
IN LONDON. 215 
 
 The church 'stood much in need of light, 
 And pious aid of talents bright, 
 And Syntax thought the lecturer 
 In this was not so apt to err, 
 While Dolly whisper'd rather loud 
 To meet the ears of all the crowd, 
 What pity 'tis the royal head 
 Of church and state, whose pious aid 
 To mortals groping here, is given 
 To show them the right way to heaven, 
 Does not direct old Canterbury 
 To move with more than usual hurry 
 And put this scheme in execution 
 Though 'twere by tax or contribution, 
 That all the churches may be made 
 To shine with true phosphoric aid ; 
 And when it may be got by purchase, 
 Why should not light shine in the churches? 
 
 He show'd too how phosphoric matter 
 Within the water burns the better, 
 And did not doubt to live to tell 
 When folks without a diving bell 
 Should pay a visit to the fishes 
 And carefully select their dishes 
 By candle light, or take some frail 
 Unthinking mermaid by the tail 
 While in her coral cave reclining, 
 Or on some hapless sailor dining. 
 He too could prove strange things indeed 
 Which some might doubt to hear or read ; 
 For instance, he took up the light 
 Which they supposed burnt very bright, 
 
215 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And told them that which he did handle 
 
 Look'd much indeed like burning candle, 
 
 But for an instant to suppose, 
 
 That that which now so vivid glows, 
 
 Was the poor candle burning bright 
 
 Would argue an imperfect sight : 
 
 For candles thus to burn before ye, 
 
 He said was an old woman's story, 
 
 Then out he blew the friendly taper 
 
 And lighted it again by vapour, 
 
 And burnt a paper o'er again 
 
 To make the matter very plain, 
 
 That candles do not give a ray, 
 
 Though they may somehow melt away, 
 
 And honest folks for light must pay. 
 
 Nay he could prove by force of flame, 
 
 Charcoal and diamonds were the same, 
 
 Though charcoal- venders in the sack, 
 
 Send only diamonds that are black, 
 
 And how Sir Humphrey's lamp with any one, 
 
 Would burn in Hell or Herculaneum ; 
 
 He likewise should convince them yet, 
 
 That heat was cold, and cold a sweat, 
 
 And sure he was that he could tell 
 
 All their disorders by the smell. ^ 
 
 * The lecturer unfortunately is not original in this : 
 it is affirmed of St. Hilarian, that " he was so full of 
 the holy spirit, as to be able to discover by the smell 
 of the bodies, and the cloaths of men, or of any thing 
 else which they had touched, to what particular demon 
 (disease,) or to what particular vice they were subject." 
 See Middleton on Miracles. How much superior was 
 St. Hilarian to the doctors and reverend sages of our 
 days, in point of nose! 
 
IN LONDON. 217 
 
 What revolutions this supposes 
 When cures should be performed by noses, 
 And doctors wise as priests should tell 
 If we are going to heaven or hell ! 
 
 He show'd them too as if in banter 
 How best to shiver a decanter, 
 Though some who do not know the science 
 At this might bid the sage defiance. 
 At least our famous lady Dolly 
 Thought that her country servant Molly, 
 Tho' often scolded for her folly, 
 Could do as well that foolish trick 
 Without the aid of stuff or stick ; 
 But the great art was, it is plain, 
 To make things broken whole again. 
 
 To end his grave and learn'd discourse 
 And give his truths their proper force, 
 He would a simple feat exhibit, 
 Not a rogue rescued from the gibbet, 
 By art Galvanic to astound them, 
 Or bring a herd of bullocks round them, 
 Without their legs to move their laughter 
 Or roar out vengeance for their slaughter ; 
 Or power of detonating powder 
 To crack and dance and roar still louder, 
 But how his gas, as they should see, 
 Would with some sulphurates agree, 
 Acids, or oils, or alkali. 
 With that a bottle up he took 
 And casting round a sapient look, 
 Exclaim'd, " behold this simple vial 
 Which now I hold for curious trial, 
 
 F F 
 
218 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Soon shall it shew a wondrous sight, 
 
 Quick, presto ! — now it is alight, — 
 
 But as their wonderment increases 
 
 It burst into a thousand pieces, 
 
 Scattering dread havock through the room, 
 
 Dismay and a most horrid fume, 
 
 Which took the assembly by the nose 
 
 And sadly soil'd the ladies clothes. 
 
 Wild uproar now prevailed, and out 
 
 The fair ones ran in trembling route, 
 
 Screaming as if the gory train, 
 
 That dye the haunts of Warwick-lane, 
 
 Restor'd to life from cruel slaughter 
 
 With hurried speed were following after. 
 
 Ill luck too, that creates such frowns, 
 
 And plays sad tricks with ladies' gowns, 
 
 Would have it that our fair had on 
 
 Her sarcenet, to give the ton 
 
 To city dames, or such new comer 
 
 As might delight to copy from her. 
 
 That sarcenet, shaped so very clever, 
 
 By acids now was soiled for ever, 
 
 And madam, spotted black and blue, 
 
 As from the assembly they withdrew, 
 
 Curst lecturer and his acids too. 
 
 Thus learning, as our Doctor said 
 Is not of pleasure always made, 
 And often in its acquisition 
 We're sadly cross'd in our ambition ; 
 Like peeping Tom, we oft must pay, 
 For seeking fully to survey 
 Such mysteries of madam Nature 
 As she would hide from every creature. 
 
IN LONDOX.- 219 
 
 Chemists ere now by accident 
 
 Pursuing some experiment, 
 
 Have had their shops blown 'bout their ears 
 
 And paid a visit to the spheres 
 
 Somewhat before they thought to mount 
 
 In air balloon the stars to count, 
 
 Like Madam Blanchard, when to see 
 
 The clouds, she set off a-Paris, 
 
 And then with downward knock so hard 
 
 Come bounce upon the Boulevard ; 
 
 Or like the libertine Don Juan 
 
 Who lov'd sweet innocence to ruin — 
 
 He whom we've seen in play and rhime 
 
 " Sent to the d — 1 before his time," 
 
 For practicing a trifling vice 
 
 Which lords can do and eulogize. 
 
 Or, could we name him with such gentry, 
 
 Think too of hapless Pliny's entry 
 
 Into the fiery womb of Etna, 
 
 Where the poor sage may yet be getting a 
 
 Confounded roasting for his looking 
 
 Into the place where d — Is were cooking ; 
 
 And thus it is we're roasted ever, 
 
 By teazing wits or by the liver, 
 
 When on the search of fame we enter 
 
 And break our natural indenture 
 
 With ignorance and common rules, 
 
 And seek to pass beyond the schools. 
 
 E'en I, you see, my dearest Dolly, 
 
 Am an example of this folly, 
 
 For spite of hope's inspiring power 
 
 And fame that woos to classic bower, 
 
 I see the curst mephitic gasses 
 
 Still circling round the great Parnassus, 
 
220 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Still is the triumph of my play, 
 
 Deferred until a distant day, 
 
 And all we can, my lovely Dolly, 
 
 Is to beguile our melancholy 
 
 With the strange sights that London yields 
 
 Until we reap more classic fields, 
 
 And when I gain my laurel crown, 
 
 Thou shalt not want a finer gown ; 
 
 Not e'en Melpomene the fair 
 
 With Dolly Syntax shall compare. 
 
 END OF THE NINTH CANTO, 
 
IN LONDON. 221 
 
 NOTE TO CANTO IX. 
 
 BY 
 
 DOCTOR SYNTAXo 
 
 A scientific discourse was recently delivered at 
 
 H y, by a celebrated lecturing doctor, in which 
 
 ideas somewhat similar to those in the foregoing 
 Canto were very gravely inculcated. Miss Lack- 
 wit, a young lady who has the honour of styling 
 Mrs. Syntax her aunt, and who with the rest of 
 the young ladies attending the boarding school at 
 that place, were present at the lecture, thus communi- 
 cates to Mrs. Syntax some of the particulars of the 
 edifying discourse : the doctor, it seems, acted on this 
 occasion as his own door-keeper ! 
 
 For lectures to pay, what a whimsical fate 'tis 
 
 When from you I've so many, and all of them gratis! 
 
 But we all went to hear the great Doctor unfold 
 
 The plan of the body, and '* how we take cold." 
 
 How charming it was as our school went up stairs ! 
 
 We march'd like a regiment, by fours and by pairs. 
 
 When we got to the top the great Doctor was there 
 
 As grave as a methodist groaning a prayer, 
 
 With his arms wide extended from pillar to post* 
 
 That none might get in without paying the cost, 
 
 For he fear'd, as he said, that the door-keeper cheats, 
 
 And that " some he makes pay," but that " others he treats." 
 
 To show you his figure at once by my skill, 
 
 He look'd like the gallows that stands on our hill. 
 
 * Middleton on Miracles, and St. Jerome in his Life 
 of St. Hilarian, have a curious story of this monk driv- 
 ing the devil out of a Bactrian camel, in which most 
 praiseworthy act we are told 
 
 " He stood firm with his arms suetch'd out." 
 
222 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 When all were arrang'd as the Doctor had plann'd 
 
 He mounted his stage with a stick in his hand, 
 
 And then with what firmness he held out his stick 
 
 As if to wage war with Old Care or Old Nick. 
 
 He said he'd determined, that give him but leave, 
 
 He would number the ribs of old Adam or Eve, 
 
 That with pictures, and bones, and a stick and all that 
 
 He would point out the ribs of a rabbit or cat. 
 
 Nay, did we but deign to attend he would try 
 
 To shew that a telescope might be an eye ; 
 
 And he said it was clear by experiment true 
 
 That the flame did not burn, and the sky was not blue. 
 
 To prove that he knew how we all are composed 
 
 And that it was truth which he thus now disclosed 
 
 He exclaim'd, " here I stand, an example of knowledge 
 
 " I'm an A double S and the son of a college ; 
 
 " Who is there that knows not my labours and name? 
 
 " I shall fill the posterior trumpet of fame,* 
 
 " My glory's so spread that no wonder you'll rank it 
 
 " With that famous squire who was toss'd in a blanket ; 
 
 " I'm not come here to prove that a lobster's a flea, 
 
 " So I tell you you'll gain nought but knowledge from me, 
 
 " Here I stand — on my right lo ! a skeleton shines 
 
 " On my left I have various little designs, 
 
 •' The teeth and the hands and the feet to display 
 
 " All drawn to the life and as clear as the day, 
 
 " For ladies you know if the bones I should handle 
 
 " And show them all round, I should need a fresh candle. 
 
 " Now ladies ! see here," and he points to the skull, 
 
 " To begin — I'll suppose that you're all of you dull, 
 
 " Ere I've closed you shall learn from this lecture alone 
 
 " To distinguish a jack-ass's head from my own ! 
 
 " Now you all must perceive two remarkable places 
 
 " In front of the scull, which enliven our faces — 
 
 * And now had Fame's posterior trumpet blown, 
 And all the nations summoned to the throne. 
 
 DUNCIAD. 
 
IN LONDON. 223 
 
 " They're the sockets for eyes, and as various their hues 
 
 " As the rainbowy shades that we see upon dews. 
 
 " There a muscle is placed so as best to obtain 
 
 " The end that's desired at the base of the brain; 
 
 " A little above the olfactory nerves 
 
 " The nose for its properest office preserves ; 
 
 " And the hearing;" but really 1 thought it a hum, 
 
 Why, he said that you hear by the sound of a drum ! 
 
 In plain English, this news I endeavour'd to lump it, 
 
 For I know that some hear by the help of a trumpet. 
 
 But the doctor went on — " On the nose you may see 
 
 " Two holes near the eyes, they're apparent to me ; 
 
 " These holes are the means (so the doctor supposes) 
 
 " That in crying some tears tumble out of the noses 
 
 And now 1 can feel them come out of my snout 
 
 Like so many porpoises rolling about, 
 
 When I think on the parsonage, rising to view, 
 
 And the sweets I've enjoyed with the doctor and you. 
 
 Of the tongue, he observed with papillae beset 
 
 It communicates taste if they're constantly wet ; 
 
 So the nose of a dog, if he wets it but well 
 
 And keeps it quite cool, is in capital smell. 
 
 The feeling he told us inhabits the whole, 
 
 From the end of the fingers quite down to the sole ; 
 
 Thus the web of the spider explains the design 
 
 For he lives in the length of each separate line 
 
 Still stranger, he said, I remember, the heart 
 
 Was a double concern, — here my own gave a start. 
 
 I wish I had asked to what place they had gone 
 
 Who like some modish people declare they have none; 
 
 This must equal one more of his wonderful tales 
 
 That we have of whole half ribs two more than the males. 
 
 If the men have of ribs and of hearts such small store, 
 
 I think that we females should have many more. 
 
 Then he told us 'gainst cold to appease our alarm. 
 " If you walk quick enough you are sure to-get warm." 
 Not to tell you all round how they do in the city, 
 To catch cold and money would be a great pity ; 
 
224 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 In search of the cash they are ever, you know, 
 
 And they now run above and they now run below, 
 
 From cellar to parlour so frequent they skip 
 
 That they get a sciatic — that's cold in the hip; 
 
 But if people would value their health as they should, 
 
 They would keep themselves always in temperate blood. 
 
 But indeed, my dear aunt, all the rest that he said 
 In this act of his lecture, on body and head. 
 The lady who took notes in short-hand denies me 
 To copy out more, and it does not surprise me, 
 For you know when I want you to part with the pelf 
 Like that lady, you keep all the notes to yourself. 
 
 Lydia Lackwit. 
 
IN LONDON. 225 
 
 CANTO X. 
 
 Daughter of Jove ! immortal Muse ! 
 Thou who hast kindly deign'd to infuse 
 A portion of thy heavenly fire 
 Into my breast and humble lyre,. 
 Or if you'll have it, hurdy gurdy, 
 (T like a verse that's stout and sturdy, 
 Though rather homely in its way, 
 And not like modern poet's lay ;) 
 Inspirer of my epic song, 
 I fear we have delay'd too long 
 To pay respect in our relation 
 To the great theme of legislation ; 
 That theme which now with labouring pain 
 Engages each parturient brain ; 
 And as of old from Cuckold's horn 
 The sapient goddesses were born, 
 Each head sends forth, as Jove's once sent, 
 A monster or a government. 
 Let us attend with Syntax' eyes 
 And see how laws and systems rise, 
 
 G G 
 
226 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 How people's wants are by their betters 
 Measur'd, and how by proper fetters 
 They are confin'd, and all such matters 
 How states are rul'd — how men give vent 
 To their great minds in parliament : 
 How taxes are proposed, and how 
 They into frightful burthens grow, 
 And with what fury, like the storms, 
 The ministers oppose reforms, 
 Sending by wholesale to perdition 
 All ranks that offer opposition 
 To will supreme of powers that be 
 And dare to preach economy 
 To those who hold the public treasure 
 And treat the nation at their pleasure. 
 
 The sage whom thus we celebrate 
 Was bound to pray for Church and State ; 
 And piously his prayers he mutter'd, 
 For on that side his bread was butter'd. 
 Like others too in orders holy, 
 He upwards look'd to please his Dolly, 
 To that blest bench where in their glory 
 The bishops cry memento mori, 
 Rosy and rubicond and jolly 
 As our renown'd and blooming Dolly, 
 Fed on no skim-milk, cream or honey, 
 But busy counting tithes and money, 
 Housing their grapes with hand so civil 
 Because, they say, the days are evil. 
 Syntax was bound, as we acknowledge, 
 To aid with prayers and all his knowledge, 
 The side that Holy Mother takes 
 To keep her store of wine and cakes, 
 
IN LONDO.V. 227 
 
 And when the minister was falling 
 
 To exercise his pious calling, 
 
 In crying out to every stranger, 
 
 Like those that live at hack and manger, 
 
 " The Church and State are both in danger :" 
 
 Yet much our good and holy man, 
 
 Who was no fiery partizan, 
 
 Desir'd for once his nose to mix 
 
 Among the smoke of politics, 
 
 And, now he could without a hoax, 
 
 Peep into old Pandora's box, 
 
 And try to find amid the fret, 
 
 If hope was at the bottom yet 
 
 Of Britain's woes, he now determined 
 
 To spy a little of the ferment, 
 
 That when some mighty question calls 
 
 Reigns nightly in St. Stephen's walls. 
 
 He therefore took the first occasion 
 To make a sort of slight invasion 
 On Dolly's meek and placid mind, 
 By telling her in accents kind, 
 He must for once leave her behind ; 
 For like the Spirituals in lawn 
 He now was by ambition drawn 
 To shine awhile in temporal places 
 And show his phiz among their graces, 
 In short— and here he smooth'd his words, 
 He now was going to the Lords — 
 And if he could by half-a-crown 
 Smooth the Cerberian look and frown, 
 Of guardian door-keepers who stand 
 With portals shut and open hand 
 
228 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 The Commons great assembly too 
 He would from gallery review. 
 
 'Tis sometimes felt as sort of curse 
 That wives delight to keep the purse, 
 But for the honour of the gown 
 Our fair one pulled out half-a-crown, 
 And said for once she'd not he hard, 
 But stay at home and play a card 
 With her obliging good landlady 
 Who for such tasks was always ready, 
 And ever had, her friends to amuse, 
 A tale of scandal and the news. 
 
 At hour of public business then 
 Our most renown'd and learn'd of men 
 Set out like senator so great % 
 Or prouder minister of state, 
 For that dark old mis-shapen pile 
 The boast of Britain's favour'd isle, 
 Where with warm zeal her statesmen mix 
 In jar of wrangling politics. 
 That source of Britain's weal or woe 
 Freedom's best shield or deadlie st foe, 
 Europe's support or overthrow ; 
 Where eloquence with moral thunder, 
 Makes knaves and puny wits knock under, 
 Shakes proud corruption on its throne, 
 And makes th' applauding world its own ; 
 Then imitates the servile tribe, 
 Shows its own shame and takes a bribe, 
 Shines like a Chatham or a Fox, 
 Then plays to truth a scurvy hoax 
 
IN LONDON. 229 
 
 Like Burke, and pockets the disgrace, 
 Laughing the nation in the face. 
 
 That scene he reached, where the best logic 
 Is that which carries best the project, 
 And he is prime we may suppose 
 Who can command the ayes and noes ; 
 Prolific scene ! whence issue forth 
 Mandates that desolate the earth, 
 That spread the smiles of peace afar 
 Or wake the fiends and flames of war 
 Here met, as in the grave, we see 
 Of life the strange epitome ; 
 The difference is — the distance small 
 ^Between the Abbey and the Hall — 
 How little now does Fox or Burke 
 Care for a Frenchman or a Turk ; 
 And though to prop their honours still 
 Majorities are at their will, 
 Pensions and places, sinecures, 
 And all that England's back endures, 
 Yet there is one won't care a flea 
 For C g or for C h. 
 
 With such reflections in his mind 
 On fleeting honours of mankind, 
 Syntax, himself in fame not small, 
 Entered erect Westminster Hall 
 Where oft, if aught could triumph o'er him, - 
 Full many a sage has gone before him, 
 With statelier wig, in fur and gown, 
 To press the public woolsack down, 
 And when the season came in view 
 To help to shear the poor sheep too ; 
 
230 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Where still the legal shears are seen 
 To clip whatever comes between, 
 And lawyers' tongues, that ne'er are still, 
 Run like the clatter of a mill. 
 The numerous courts of endless law 
 As on he passed our Doctor saw, 
 But did not once wish to get in — 
 They looked so like the realms of sin. 
 So up the antique stairs he skipt 
 And through the lobbies lightly tript 
 Into the peers' illustrious house 
 Where plebeian creeps like fearful mouse, 
 And as the house could not afford 
 A seat to aught beneath a lord, 
 Doffing his good three cornered hat 
 Like Turk, he humbly laid him squat 
 Behind the bar upon the mat ; 
 For 'tis required in places high 
 That commoners should stand or lie, 
 And this they say is dignity. 
 He mark'd the chair — yclept a throne 
 Where Heaven's vicegerent sits alone 
 And sanction o-ives to all the acts 
 That heavily the people tax, 
 While the re-echoing clerk and quill 
 In Norman French proclaim his will. 
 Arranged he saw on either hand 
 The noble peers of England's land 
 On weighty subjects now debating 
 And now on bench familiar prating, 
 Now listening to the dread relations 
 Of horrid green-bag informations, 
 Now gravely throwing by the scores 
 Some poor petitions out of doors, 
 
IN LONDON. 231 
 
 While to the bar with many a how 
 To listen to the house below 
 The good old chancellor came trotting 
 With seal in hand their wishes noting. 
 
 Next to the house more famed for speeches, 
 Where eloquence its climax reaches 
 When posts and pensions are in view 
 And jobs are to be carried through, 
 Our curious sage explored his way, 
 Or rather we should plainly say 
 To that antique and narrow crib 
 Where squeezed has been full many a rib, 
 Styled gallery of the House of Commons, 
 Where one would need the ribs of Romans. 
 Having sooth'd Cerberus with his sop 
 Syntax his nose got leave to pop 
 Into the senatorial " room," 
 Enveloped in an awful gloom, 
 Of Gothic pomp and grandeur, where 
 He scarce could see the speaker's chair 
 Far less his wig or person view 
 Though some like Melville could see two-A- 
 Here then upon the gallery's brink 
 While printers squeezed him black as ink 
 
 * Melville and Pitt, who super vinum, 
 Oft sat. and chuckled o'er their tricks, 
 
 Till there was little sense between 'ein, 
 Then went to talk of politics : 
 
 For the great house forsook their liquor, 
 But being drunk as Davy's sow, 
 
 Says Pitt, " I cannot sec the Speaker," 
 Says Melville, " why, I can see two." 
 
232 fDOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Syntax looked on the vast profound, 
 
 And heard at length the welcome sound 
 
 Of orator in accents big 
 
 Address the man in the great wig :^= 
 
 " Hem ! Mr. Speaker ! sir, I move 
 
 " That order be preserved above ;" 
 
 (" Order there, in the gallery order !") 
 
 Down goes the motion by recorder. 
 
 " This honourable house, sir, has 
 
 " Against disorder standing laws, 
 
 " And whilst I hold the envied station 
 
 " To represent the British nation, 
 
 " Or whilst I have a leg to stand on, 
 
 " This mighty cause I'll not abandon." 
 
 Cheers from the ministerial side, 
 
 And down sits Dick, the great, with pride. 
 
 Next rises one whose great ambition 
 Is to present a long petition — 
 " Start not, good Mr. Speaker, at 
 " The long and fearful length of what 
 " I am about to lay before 
 " This house as bound in duty, for 
 " It is no insolent demand 
 " For a reform throughout the land 
 " Or for reduction in the expences 
 " Of state, from folks out of their senses, 
 " Nor is it for the preservation 
 " Of the dear rights of this great nation, 
 " But, Mr. Speaker, and the house, 
 " I scorn, Sir, to bring out a mouse, 
 
 * Honest Jack Fuller's description of the Speaker- 
 " the little man in the big wig." 
 
IN LONDON. 233 
 
 " This long 1 petition pleads the case 
 
 " Of an abused prolific race 
 
 " Which this illustrious land inhabits, 
 
 " I mean, sir, the great rights of rabbits !'' 
 
 The patriot ceased, while some cried w hear, 
 
 " Odd rabbit it — it's wondrous queer." 
 
 Then followed an important motion 
 Of which I've got but a slight notion ; 
 It seemed a mixture of all matters 
 'Bout which each side so often clatters, 
 To curb the people's wild relaxes 
 And make them quietly bear taxes, 
 To labour in their proper station, 
 And swallow bible education ; 
 The slave trade and its distant horrors, 
 But more on the immediate terrors 
 From whites, and lest they should extirp us 
 We should suspend the Habeas Corpus, 
 For starving stomachs will rebel 
 , Unless you feed or bind them well. 
 
 Much did good Syntax and the rest 
 Admire the statesman next who prest 
 With attitudinizing air 
 To claim the attention of the chair, 
 And beat as much as he was able 
 The books and parchments on the table. 
 'Tvvas Britain's greatest statesman, who 
 Brought all his treaties to review, 
 To shew how well (not unrewarded) 
 Her trade and interests he had guarded, 
 "Twould be, he said, unlike this nation, 
 Generous beyond specification, 
 
 H H 
 
234 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 To keep whatever she'd obtain'd 
 
 From an ally who was her friend, 
 
 He therefore nobly had restored 
 
 All that was conquered by our sword 
 
 And did not doubt our drooping trade, 
 
 Would by such policy be made 
 
 To prosper, and the British name 
 
 Acquire still more immortal fame. 
 
 'Tis true those great and firm allies 
 
 Whom we thus treat and subsidize 
 
 Were not so bowed down by a weight 
 
 Of taxes and of endless debt, 
 
 And might by rivalry out-do 
 
 Our trade, but then great Waterloo 
 
 Must make the continent respect us, 
 
 And Louis never would neglect us. 
 
 The learned gentleman behind, 
 
 Who spoke before should keep in mind, 
 
 That fundamental features were, 
 
 Not always at first sight quite fair, 
 
 But he would still straight forward go, 
 
 In spite of all the cries of No ; 
 
 Then the Right Honourable turned, 
 
 And then, at length, the house adjourned. 
 
 END OF THE TENTH CANTO, 
 
IN LONDON. 235 
 
 CANTO XI. 
 
 The hour was late, or rather morning 
 When our good Doctor was returning, 
 For now the business of the state, 
 Like sinner's vows, is somewhat late, 
 And so in all states and all nations 
 Are salutary reformations ; 
 But the great guardian powers that keep 
 The watch of nations never sleep, 
 Though one would think it rather hard 
 To keep for aye such watch and ward. 
 The stimulus of strong ambition, 
 Howe'er on every condition 
 Is such that now with patriot zeal, 
 All ranks would wake for England's weal 
 'Till like the great ones, some snug trap in, 
 You find them 'mid cheese-parings napping. 
 
 Time's speaker had applied his throat 
 To give a short and fearful note, 
 Scatt'ring the ayes and noes, and telling 
 The drowsy crowd to seek their dwelling ; 
 
236 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 When as we've said, our learned man 
 
 At length his homeward march began, 
 
 And nought but charms of Dolly kind 
 
 Was running in his anxious mind. 
 
 It pleas'd, however, the watchful god 
 
 Who in his watery abode, 
 
 For Jehu a kind out-look keeps, 
 
 And patronizes all the whips, 
 
 About that most eventful hour 
 
 To tumble down a plenteous shower. 
 
 Setting each hackney wheel in motion, 
 
 And sweeping down as with an ocean, 
 
 Along the streets and sewers each thing 
 
 That stinks in London's fruitful spring, 
 
 Offal of butchers' market, rotting, 
 
 Vernals from Covent Garden floating, 
 
 And, spared by mudlark, lifeless cats, 
 
 And oyster-shells and stinking sprats — 
 
 All these now met in odd confusion 
 
 And added to the sad ablution 
 
 Which Doctor got as on he went 
 
 Their sweet and congregated scent, 
 
 For not one of the thousand hacks, 
 
 Driving along with eager thwacks, 
 
 And who, when you don't want them, ever, 
 
 Like cozening jilts, are courting favour, — 
 
 Not one of all the scoundrel tribe 
 
 Would hear our sage or take his bribe, 
 
 And Syntax thus to find his way 
 
 Through rain, or in some alley stay, 
 
 Was left, but reach'd at length Pall Mall, 
 
 Sure there to find in warm hotel 
 
 A refuge from the shower, and good 
 
 Juice of the grape to cheer the blood. 
 
IN LONDON. 237 
 
 A stately dome with splendid blaze 
 And portals ope, attracts his gaze; 
 With eager step in Syntax goes 
 And to the hurrying waiter shows 
 A full as keen and knowing nose 
 As any of the lounging crowd 
 That throng the place and bawl aloud ; 
 It was not long howe'er before 
 Our sage found by the noise and roar 
 That stead of a superb hotel, 
 He'd enter 'd what they call a hell, 
 Fit name, I ween, for such a place, 
 Where there is little sign of grace ; 
 Houses where oft full many a one 
 By desperate gambling is undone, 
 And where the fellest harpies wait, 
 With claws as keen as Ocypete,* 
 Of property or an estate 
 The best conveyancers that ever 
 You met, they are so very clever ; 
 And where by chance and under cover, 
 Full many a property's made over 
 The gambling board to swindling troops, 
 Of scoundrels, by their foolish dupes. 
 Though view'd by some, our sage could feel 
 As if he'd been an alguazil, 
 Sent from the den of Inquisition 
 To learn the secrets of perdition, 
 Or emissary peeping there 
 From Bow Street office or Queen Square, 
 
 * The name of one of the Harpies. 
 
238 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Syntax at once contriv'd a way 
 
 All such suspicions to allay, — 
 
 His hat so clerical in shape 
 
 Could easily the fashion ape, 
 
 So as the dandies do when warm 
 
 He whipt it underneath his arm, 
 
 Folded, as if for instant sport 
 
 He'd come from Almack's or the Court, 
 
 And eager this new scene to view 
 
 Took up the cant, and even a cue. 
 
 Tho' parsons this should seldom do. 
 
 Admitted to the strange sanctorum, 
 
 Where, billiards, cards, or dice before 'em, 
 
 The votaries and the victims too 
 
 Of gaming still their fates pursue, 
 
 Our sage beheld with inward wonder 
 
 The odd and motley scene of plunder, 
 
 Which oft by spendthrifts may be seen 
 
 Snug carrying on behind the screen, 
 
 Though the police to spoil their games is 
 
 Oft scouring Pall Mall and St. James's. 
 
 The turns of chance — the revolutions 
 
 Of fortune's wheel, whose retributions 
 
 Full oft vindictive punishment 
 
 To breast of guilty victim sent, 
 
 He mark'd, but scarce could silence keep 
 
 To hear the curses loud and deep 
 
 That burst from the unthinking train 
 
 When fortune stript them of their gain ; 
 
 Or when some hapless ruin'd pigeon 
 
 'Gainst whom the knaves have carried siege on, 
 
 Sees all his expectations crost 
 
 And wealth and peace for ever lost — 
 
IN LONDON. 239 
 
 Lost in some wild and wanton stake, 
 But now at last become awake, 
 To the infatuating rage 
 That madly led him to engage 
 With villains in the horrid Babel 
 Of profligacy's gaming table. 
 
 At such " d — n'd, dear distracting places," 
 Those who contrive to shew their faces, 
 And pay subscriptions or keep credit 
 With cash in hand, or those who need it, 
 The thirsty slave of fortune may 
 Drink sorrow dead drunk without pay, 
 Or by repeated glass or bowl 
 Fit for dark deeds his brooding soul. 
 It chanc'd while thus our sage look'd on 
 Watching each look, hearing each groan, 
 Though gold in heaps was spread before 'em, 
 He mark'd one of the anxious quorum, 
 Who late had thousands, sit him down 
 Not worth now e'en a single crown. 
 The wine, the punch, the friendly cup 
 To keep the flagging spirits up, 
 Were ever near — and o'er and o'er 
 He drank them out and call'd for more — 
 " All, all is lost — so here we go" — 
 He cried, — " come, keep me going, Joe," 
 And Joe while he the glass was taking 
 Was still the other bumper making, 
 And ever with distraction wild 
 He turned where his lost gold was piled, 
 And wished, and muttered curse profound, 
 That instant darkness might surround 
 
240 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 The scene and sights so hateful grown, 
 That he might grapple for his own. 
 Then starting phrensied from his seat 
 The mighty ruin to complete, 
 With well directed sweep of stick 
 He plunged each light in darkness quick 
 And then, more desperate than before, 
 All hell was raging in uproar : 
 Confusion reigned throughout their ranks 
 Making sad havock 'mong the banks, 
 Some were employed each other licking 
 Others were busy pocket picking, 
 And waiters fast were stowing all 
 The cards and dice and every ball 
 In artful chinks behind the wall, 
 While every wire with quick vibrations 
 Its telegraph communications, 
 Was from the door to garret making, 
 Like magic, due precaution taking 
 Against inquisitors' intrusion, 
 For by machinery Rosicrutian, 
 Each gambling house is thus protected, 
 And cut and seamed as if dissected. 
 
 Poor Syntax, lost amid the strife, 
 Now almost trembled for his life ; 
 His way unable to remark, 
 He laid about him in the dark, 
 For man will do this in defence 
 Though made of perfect innocence 
 And loudly join'd in the uproar, 
 Until at length he found the door, 
 And down the stair he tumbled flat, 
 Minus his much loved wig and hat. 
 
 ! 
 
IN LONDON. • . 241 
 
 Whoe'er has read with admiration 
 The " wild and wonderful" narration 
 Of Orpheus going for his wife 
 To Pandemonium's scene of strife, 
 Where, it is said, (let wives beware,) 
 Go even the beautiful and fair, 
 To live with Pluto, King of Hell, 
 Unless they love their husbands well, 
 And husbands like their spouses so, 
 That they for them to Hell would go ; 
 Whoe'er we say has read how Orpheus 
 Scorning to sleep alone like Morpheus, 
 Descended to Hell's very middle 
 And by the habeas of his fiddle, 
 Brought up to earth the lovely corpus 
 Of his Eurydice, like porpus, 
 Or Venus bobbing from the water, 
 To raise again a noisy clatter, 
 Will haply guess or may conceive 
 What our description scarce can give, 
 The struggles dire, the toil and labour, 
 Of Syntax who possessed no tabor, 
 No fiddle or the best of lutes 
 To charm to peace the sordid brutes, 
 Whose furious rage and fiend-like yell 
 Resounded through tho gambling hell, — 
 The struggles dire of our good sage 
 To leave this most infernal cage, 
 And get to her who wanted not 
 His aid to meliorate her lot — 
 The wife he loved and longed to see — 
 Dolly, the true Eurydice. 
 And well it was — yes, it was well, 
 Even for the inmates of that hell, 
 
 i i 
 
242 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Who did our Doctor so maltreat, 
 
 That Dolly knew not of that feat, 
 
 Or his Eurydice with glory 
 
 Would quickly have reversed the story, 
 
 And with the music of her tongue, 
 
 Beat up the quarters of the throng 
 
 Of dicing knaves, and made them quake 
 
 As if reduced to their last stake, 
 
 Or all the dreadful Bow-street minions 
 
 Had rush'd into the d — l's dominions. 
 
 But luckily without such succour, 
 Tho' rather in a sort of pucker, 
 Our sage as we before have sung, 
 While loud his sapient noddle rung 
 With hard knocks, like a parish bell, 
 When a new clapper beats it well, 
 At length got to the welcome door, 
 And using prudent Nature's lore, 
 Which oft consists in quickly plying 
 The legs, when one's not used to flying, 
 Bade rather hastily adieu 
 To gambling hells and all their crew, 
 And by the aid of friendly watch 
 Who take, too, oft what they can catch, 
 Got for a shilling, spite of folly, 
 To Marybone and lovely Dolly, 
 And laid him down that fair beside, 
 Who kindly turned not once to chide ; 
 The reason was to Doctor plain, 
 Her tongue was bound in slumber's chain ; 
 And Syntax almost wished that sleep 
 Would bind it o'er the peace to keep, 
 
IN LONDON. 243 
 
 For the remainder of his life, 
 Though much he loved his lawful wife. 
 
 - 
 
 When Mrs. Syntax woke and found 
 Her husband's head with napkin bound, 
 And saw the signs of a contusion 
 Which he had got in the confusion, 
 Or in his manner of descending 
 The stairs that seemed to have no ending, 
 She rubb'd her eyes and screamed outright 
 And woke the Doctor in a fright, 
 Who, though his head was rather queer, 
 Soon soothed and pacified his dear, 
 By telling her his odd adventure 
 Of being forced a hell to enter, 
 And of his being thrown with pain 
 Like helpless Jonah forth again. 
 " A hell !" quoth Mrs. Syntax, " sure 
 " You speak in parables obscure — 
 " I never in my life heard tell 
 " Of parson being sent to hell — 
 " If such the end of their good lives, 
 " I tremble sadly for their wives — 
 " But have you not been in a dream, 
 " Whose frightful images still seem 
 " To haunt your fancy, like John Bunyan's 
 " Poor travelling pilgrim, whose opinions 
 " Led the poor wanderer to imagine 
 " He still was bent where fiends were raging. 
 " But recollect, my dear, you went 
 " Last night to see the Parliament — 
 " You do not mean, for it would be 
 " A treasonable simile, 
 
244 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 " To liken, sure, the house of speeches 
 
 " To places where no quiet reaches, 
 
 " And where, 'tis truly said you know, 
 
 " None but corruptest sinners go." 
 
 Our sage at this interpretation 
 
 Of his most wonderful narration,. 
 
 Could not forbear a smile, and said r 
 
 His Dolly need not be afraid 
 
 Of his e'er throwing imputation 
 
 On the great council of the nation — 
 
 As parson looking for a mitre 
 
 He'd as soon swallow draught of nitre, 
 
 As entertain the vile ambition 
 
 To shine in records of sedition ; 
 
 And then again with patience due 
 
 He ran his night's adventures through. 
 
 Explaining more than we can tell V . J ' 
 
 The secrets of a gambling hell, 
 
 Till honest, unsuspecting Dolly 
 
 At length conceived the matter wholly* 
 
 And lifted up her hands to say 
 
 What fools they are that trust to play. 
 
 iiat oi\i teoJ 
 
 nine, ov' 
 
 [iuM IIbI 3b snbrg 
 
 f «>j ijjoi* at 
 
 m yaml gail 
 
 ■ 
 
 END OF THE ELEVENTH CANTO. 
 
 bats : vkw Imb • 
 
 ■ 
 
IN LONDON. 245 
 
 I 
 
 ftoi 
 
 CANTO XII. 
 
 I 
 
 
 
 • 
 
 'Tis fortunate that when a head 
 Not altogether made of lead, 
 But such as Heaven had given to Syntax, 
 Meets with hard matter, knocks, and fine cracks., 
 If destiny but spares the brains, 
 The store of learning still remains, 
 And, tho' 'tis jumbled, by good luck it 
 Don't leave the head like empty bucket. 
 
 When Syntax by good Madamjs care, • 
 Had lost the marks of that curst stair, 
 Down which we've said he rudely fell, 
 In gambling regions of Pall Mall ; 
 He next resolved an hour to pass 
 Among the bustling busy mass 
 That crowd the City's active scenes 
 To raise the needful ways and means, 
 And daily visit the Exchange, 
 To hear or circulate something strange. 
 Syntax, no votary of gain, 
 Was only anxious to obtain 
 
246 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 ,Some information about trade 
 
 Because he oft had heard it said 
 
 That Stock and Paper both were Cash 
 
 And also, that they were but trash 
 
 Which were upheld and kept afloat 
 
 Mechanically as a boat 
 
 With all her hands employed to guide 
 
 And make her sail against the tide. 
 
 To have the facts completely proved 
 
 And all his wavering doubts removed 
 
 If cash and paper are the same 
 
 Or public stock an empty name, 
 
 And what to Ma'am was dearer still, 
 
 To see the nation's paper mill, 
 
 The Bank, and wonderful Cornhill, 
 
 Where neither corn nor hill are seen, 
 
 But lottery puffers intervene, 
 
 And jobbers and a lounging train 
 
 Of bears and bulls pursue their gain, 
 
 The Doctor and his spouse set out, 
 
 Resolved to take the straightest route 
 
 Which Mrs. Syntax said she heard 
 
 Was through the great St. Paul's church-yard, 
 
 " Where," she exclaimed, H I hope to meet 
 
 " No spectre in his winding sheet 
 
 " Nor aught unpleasant to the sight, 
 
 " Altho' it be in full day-light ; 
 
 " For well, my dear, you recollect 
 
 " The terrible and strange effect, 
 
 " Produc'd on me by being scar'd 
 
 ff In coming through our own church-yard 
 
 " That evening when I chanc'd to pass 
 
 " Close by the beadle's harmless ass 
 
IN LONDON. 247 
 
 " Which by mistake had been left out 
 
 " To wander like a ghost about — 
 
 " I therefore trust we shall not see 
 
 " What may affright or you or me, 
 
 " Yet still I think they wanted grace, 
 
 " To make a road thro' such a place." 
 
 At this the sage began to smile 
 
 And told his dear no harm or guile 
 
 Could near her come, for she would meet, 
 
 Thousands of folks in every street, 
 
 But Mrs. Syntax still averr'd 
 
 That going near to the interr'd 
 
 Was not to her a pleasant duty 
 
 For death was a great foe to beauty ; 
 
 And to excite a dead man's groans 
 
 By walking rudely o'er his bones 
 
 She never would, 'twas sacrilege, 
 
 And not in human privilege. 
 
 At last the Doctor said, " my dear, 
 
 " You need not have the smallest fear, 
 
 " Tho' certainly it is a pity 
 
 " That any road into the city 
 
 ". Should be through consecrated ground, 
 
 " But then no other could be found, 
 
 " And of a thing there's no abuse 
 
 " When it's applied to proper use." 
 
 ii od ii 
 Ere the good Doctor could say more 
 Poor Mrs. Syntax gave a roar, 
 As he had never heard before. ] 
 
 This frighten'd him to such degree 
 That he could neither hear nor see ; 
 He therefore stood for some time still 
 To know if ma'am was taken ill, 
 
248 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And finding it was not the cage, 
 
 Began to look about the place 
 
 For madam's cause of fright, when full 
 
 Within his view a raging bull 
 
 Came driving on from Smithfield foaming, 
 
 Along the crowded streets wild roaming, 
 
 Oft making most uncivil pops 
 
 Into the brittle china shops. 
 
 With stick uplifted Doctor stood 
 
 Bravely resolved to shed his blood 
 
 Against his horned foe in scorn 
 
 For her who ne'er gave him a horn, 
 
 But luckily a brewer's dray 
 
 Forced Johnny Bull another way, 
 
 Which made the Doctor to exclaim 
 
 " Praised be the Lord and blest his name 
 
 " That we are yet possess'd of life, 
 
 " And that we are still man and wife, 
 
 " For what would be my lot if thou 
 
 " Wert taken from my side just now, 
 
 li I neither should have strength nor will 
 
 " To leave this spot on Ludgate Hill." 
 
 Here Mrs. Syntax heav'd a sigh, 
 
 And said, " I have no wish to die 
 
 " For I am happy and content 
 
 " And have no wish to be a saint, 
 
 " But now I recollect, my dear, 
 
 " That we some time before were here ; 
 
 " Did we not see that building there, 
 
 " With these great men and large broad stair 
 
 " Surrounded by these rails and walls." 
 
 That, says the Doctor, " is Saint Paul's, 
 
 " Which I believe you have not seen 
 
 " Because I know we have not been 
 
IN LONDON. 249 
 
 " In this part of the town before, 
 
 " But certainly no place is more 
 
 " Deserving of such high respect, 
 
 " Nor calculated to affect 
 
 " The mind with wonder and surprize 
 
 " To see the beauty and the size 
 
 " Of that sublime and sacred place 
 
 " Which occupies so large a space 
 
 " And shows the skill and art of men 
 
 " But chiefly of the famous Wren,* 
 
 " The architect, who rear'd and plann'd 
 
 " This noble structure which will stand 
 
 " I hope for many after ages 
 
 " A holy temple for such sages 
 
 " As shine like burning lights and torches 
 
 " In our cathedrals and churches. 
 
 " But for myself, though a divine 
 
 " It is impossible to shine 
 
 " Being so distant from the light 
 
 " That I am nearly out of sight, 
 
 " Except it be when on a Tour 
 
 " Or in my parish 'mong the poor. 
 
 " Howe'er a Deanery or See 
 
 " May yet be still conferr'd on me, 
 
 " And Syntax' name among the courteous 
 
 " May blaze like Sacheverel or Porteus. 
 
 " But come let us go on, my dear, 
 
 " For I will stand no longer here, 
 
 " Because I now begin to find 
 
 " The force and fury of the wind ; 
 
 * Sir Christopher Wren. 
 
 K K 
 
250 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 ." Besides it now begins to rain"-^- 
 Says Mrs. Syntax, " that is plain, 
 " And I am very much afraid 
 " That we shall be sometime delay'd 
 " Because I fear that we must stop 
 " And try to get into a shop." 
 
 To this the Doctor would not bend 
 But with the wind strove to contend 
 Which turn r d th' umbrella inside out 
 And whirl'd the Doctor round about ; 
 His hat and wig too went adrift 
 With Madam's parasol, like skift 
 Flying before the unruly gale, 
 Blanching each cheek with deadly pale. 
 Her shawl and cap were like to follow 
 Which made her sadly scream and hollow, 
 And much she laboured with invention 
 Still to prevent the right ascension 
 Of what was very much inclin'd 
 To obey the impulse of the wind ; 
 But all the efforts she could try 
 Could not divert the uncivil eye 
 Of those young fellows who delight 
 To stand and gaze at any sight, 
 Especially the shape and dress 
 Of any lady in distress. 
 
 At last she met with kind assistance, 
 And conquer'd Boreas by resistance. 
 Each piece of dress was then brought back 
 To where it was before th' attack, 
 
IN LONDON. 251 
 
 And thus by care and fighting hard 
 
 Our lady clear'd Saint Paul's church-yard, 
 
 But Doctor Syntax could not stop. 
 
 He was so light and had such scope 
 
 That nothing but a. wall or pier 
 
 Could be opposed to his career ; 
 
 At last by accident or chance, 
 
 The flying Doctor stopt at once, 
 
 And then exclaim'd, " God save my wife, 
 
 " I hope she has not lost her life 
 
 " For I have run a race for mine 
 
 •" Without intention or design." 
 
 Here Mrs. Syntax came in view 
 And cried, " dear Doctor, is that you ? 
 " See, I have brought the things you lost, 
 " When you were running like the post 
 *' That brings the letters and the mail. 
 " Or like a ship when in full sail. 
 '/ How could you run at such a rate 
 " And leave me there in such a state ? 
 " Yet I am very glad to see 
 " That you are safe as well as me, 
 " For I suspected When I *heard 
 " We had to pass through a church-yard 
 " That something bad or very strange 
 " Would give us trouble, or derange 
 " The plan we had in agitation 
 " To see the treasure of the nation. 
 " But had I known what I should meet 
 " I would have gone by Newgate-street." 
 " Come,'' says the Doctor, " do not chide 
 " For we have now got to Cheapside. 
 
252 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Says Mrs. Syntax, " then I'll try 
 " If things are cheap, I want to buy 
 " A piece of silk and Brussels' lace 
 " To line and ornament the face 
 " Of my old bonnet and straw hat 
 " Which have for many years lain flat.'' 
 
 Here Syntax was obliged to stop 
 Till she call'd at a mercer's shop 
 To try if things were cheap or dear, 
 For she supposed that all things here 
 Must surely be charged very low 
 Or else the name's not apropos, 
 But 'stead of being rather lower 
 The price of every thing was more. 
 Ma'am therefore, in a sort of dudgeon 
 Pronounced the mercer a curmudgeon ; 
 Then onward to the Poultry press'd 
 In hopes to find, dressed or undressed, 
 A precious morsel, duck or pigeon, 
 Or wild fowl rare, partridge, or widgeon, 
 Or any thing that could be got 
 To please the taste, or fill the pot. 
 
 Soon as her ladyship got there 
 She eagerly began to stare 
 Expecting that at every house 
 There would be woodcocks, snipes, and grouse 
 Exposed on benches to be seen 
 By those whose appetites are keen ; 
 But what was her surprise to find 
 That not a creature of the kind, 
 
IN LONDON. 253 
 
 Nor woodcock, pigeon, fowl or feather 
 In all the Poultry together 
 Could she discover or come at 
 Except the plumes in ladies' hat, 
 This she declar'd was very strange 
 And that there ought to be a change 
 Made in the manners and professions 
 Of those that occupied such stations, 
 Or else the names are mere deception 
 Which cannot long escape detection. 
 
 " But come, my dear," the Doctor cries, 
 " Here is the Bank, see what a size ! 
 " If I could only find a door 
 " The place I'd speedily explore ; 
 " I'll visit every room and closet 
 " If I meet nothing to oppose it." 
 The door they find, and in they enter, 
 And soon are in the very centre 
 Of the vast crowd in the rotunda, 
 Which on each holiday or Sunday 
 Is kept as close as any drum, 
 And silent from the usual hum. 
 
 Here then our party stand and gaze, 
 And look around for Henry Hase, 
 " For," says the Doctor, " if I can, 
 '* I must behold this noted man." 
 And here the Doctor took a station 
 To see what was the occupation 
 Of such great numbers as were there, 
 For it looked almost like a fair, 
 
254 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And Mrs. Syntax said she thought 
 
 That something must be sold or bought, 
 
 For she observed no one alone, 
 
 And that they all laid something on 
 
 A bench which served them as table, ,., % 
 
 But she confess d she was not able ,. 
 
 To learn their meaning or intent 
 
 Tho' she could hear the word per cent. 
 
 " Then," said the Doctor, " I know well 
 
 " That people here both buy and sell 
 
 " By hundreds, and to great extent, 
 
 " And, therefore, I am fully bent 
 
 " On having some more information." 
 
 At this, he went, with animation 
 
 To ask what they were doing there,. 
 
 And learn'd that they were to transfer 
 
 Or change, some stock from hand to hand 
 
 In consequence of a demand. 
 
 " What !" says the Doctor, " is that all 
 
 " The business done in this great hall 
 
 " In which I see so much commotion 
 
 ... 
 " That it is like a troubled ocean — 
 
 " I thought that none but men of rank 
 
 " Or else Directors of the Bank 
 
 " Could use such freedom in this place, 
 
 " As I discover is the case. 
 
 " Surely the end for which they met 
 
 " Is not to buy or yet sell debt ? 
 
 " Where promissory notes and bills 
 
 " Are numerous as druggists' pills, 
 
 " And I have often heard it said 
 
 " As easy and as quickly made ; 
 
IN LONDON. 255 
 
 " But now, my dear, come let us try 
 
 " To see this manufactory, 
 
 " For though I am now pretty old 
 
 " I never saw rags turn'd to gold. 
 
 " Although the practice now it seems 
 
 " Is such that all the country teems 
 
 " With nought but paper made of rags, 
 
 " And this must fill our money bags 
 
 " Instead of the good sterling gold 
 
 " Which we shall never more behold 
 
 " Unless for it we take a dance 
 
 " To Holland, Germany, or France. 
 
 " And then the process is so quick 
 
 " That 'tis performed like slight hand trick 
 
 " Of conjuror, before one knows 
 
 " How the thing either comes or goes." 
 
 Here next our party looked around 
 If any passage could be found 
 By which they best might gain a sight 
 Of what so seldom sees the light, 
 The boasted loads of precious ore 
 'Tis said the Bank has piled in store, 
 For though they were not firm believers, 
 They strongly hated all deceivers ; 
 And once resolved to be so bold 
 As see the bullion and the gold 
 Which they had heard was4o be seen 
 By those who said that they had been 
 Among the guineas, crowns and bars, 
 Preserv'd as trophies gain'd in wars ; . 
 
256 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 But Doctor Syntax and his wife 
 
 Were ne'er so puzzled in their life 
 
 On week-day long or preaching Sunday, 
 
 To find the way from the rotunda 
 
 Where they had hoped to have the pleasure 
 
 Of seeing all the precious treasure. 
 
 At last the Doctor said, * my dear 
 " Let us examine what is here." 
 But after walking up and down 
 He could not see a single crown, 
 Except a few which carried hair 
 And were so impudent as stare 
 At the good Doctor and his lady 
 Who thus appear'd prepared and ready 
 To undertake some operation 
 For most minute examination ; 
 But there was nothing to admire, 
 Which caused our party to retire 
 And try another way to find 
 What uppermost was in their mind. 
 Pausing again, they next stood still 
 To read a long and printed bill, 
 Supposing that it would convey 
 Some information of the way 
 Towards the specie and the treasure 
 Where they expected so much pleasure. 
 But it contain'd no information, 
 About the place of destination 
 Which made the Doctor to remark 
 That they were wandering in the dark. 
 
IN LONDON. 257 
 
 " But let us go right round about," 
 
 He said, " I've not the smallest doubt 
 
 " That we shall see the whole extent 
 
 " And eveiy farthing not yet lent." 
 
 When thus the Doctor had express'd 
 
 His resolution not to rest 
 
 Till he had entered every door 
 
 As well behind him as before 
 
 They both set off full speed t' explore 
 
 The passage by another door, 
 
 But all their efforts to behold 
 
 The vaunted hoards of shining gold, 
 
 Were vain — had madam been a scullion 
 
 She could not less have seen the bullion, 
 
 " Therefore, my dear," says she, " let's go 
 
 " Either straight forward or below, 
 
 " For I suppose there is no more 
 
 " Rooms or apartments on this floor, 
 
 " And as I think where we have been, 
 
 " We've nothing grand or wondrous seen 
 
 " We need not go into per cent 
 
 " Because I am sure they there pay rent, 
 
 " And things are screw'd to such a height 
 
 " That they could not be worth the sight. 
 
 " I have not now the smallest doubt 
 
 " But all those with a board put out 
 
 " Above the door, upon the wall 
 
 " Are rooms to let both great and small." 
 
 Though Mrs. Syntax' observation 
 
 Delivered was with animation, 
 
 Yet still the Doctor kept in view 
 
 The plan which he meant to pursue 
 
 L L 
 
258 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 To take if she would not prevent 
 
 A survey of the whole extent, 
 
 For after walking round the square 
 
 And every office that was there 
 
 They next got where the Tellers stand 
 
 Who pass the money through the hand 
 
 With such rapidity of motion, 
 
 That it outstrips the quickest notion ; 
 
 At this the Doctor was anmz'd 
 
 And Mrs. Syntax stood and gaz'd, 
 
 Till Syntax said, " come forward here," 
 
 Then she approached so very near 
 
 To see the weighing of the gold 
 
 That she was soon politely told 
 
 That none but dealers or directors 
 
 Were there considered as inspectors ; 
 
 But madam did not yet retire, 
 
 Because the pleasure and desire 
 
 To see this traffic was so great 
 
 That she was still disposed to wait 
 
 And view this pleasant operation 
 
 Of alchemy or transmutation, 
 
 Which by the motion of the hand 
 
 And powerful order or command 
 
 She saw vile rags so quickly chang'd 
 
 To gold and silver, all arrang'd 
 
 In regular order, rank and file, 
 
 And then collected in a pile ; 
 
 Ma'am then was taken from her station 
 
 By Doctor who now made oration 
 
 Upon the value to the nation 
 
IN LONDON. 259 
 
 Of Banks and Marts of such extent 
 Where so much cash was made and lent, 
 Then left the place, design'd to view 
 The Stock Exchange and Lloyds' book too, 
 And next to visit all the walks, 
 To see the dress and hear the talks 
 Of those that sit, or stand, or range 
 Around that busy scene the Exchange ; 
 But madam said she would remain 
 Till Doctor should return again 
 From viewing all the bulls and bears 
 And every animal that fares 
 Upon the common public stock 
 Which would evaporate like smoke 
 Should any sudden alteration 
 Assail the income of the nation. 
 
 When Doctor Syntax cross'd the way 
 It chanced to be an idle day, 
 But still a sample of the stock 
 Were playing in a motley flock, 
 And though the alley was not full 
 He met by accident a bull,* 
 
 # A practice exists among persons, who often pos-. 
 sess no property in the funds, to contract for the sale 
 of certain portions of stock against a future day at a 
 stated price. If the price of that stock should be 
 different from the price agreed upon when the day- 
 arrives, they only pay or receive the difference be- 
 tween those prices. 
 
 Although this practice is contrary to law, yet it is 
 
260 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 That nearly toss'd him in the air, 
 
 And then he lighted on a bear 
 
 That forc'd him back upon a broker 
 
 Who shook the Doctor like a knocker ; 
 
 This made his hat and wig both fly 
 
 To such a distance and so high - 
 
 That they came down with dreadful force 
 
 And struck against a heavy horse* 
 
 Which made the animal turn quick 
 
 And carry off the Doctor's stick 
 
 That struck a lame duck trying towaddlef 
 
 From alley dark to have a paddle 
 
 Within the Serpentine or Thames 
 
 To put an end to all his schemes ; d-pttm 
 
 The Doctor also got a kick 
 
 In trying to preserve his stick,o;m;c 
 
 But this was only on the heel 
 
 And did no more than make him reel J 
 
 Although it made him more afraid 
 
 Than any trick the beasts had played, 
 
 carried on to great extent. In the language of Ex- 
 change Alley the buyer in such cases is called a bull, 
 and the seller a bear. 
 
 * When subscribers to any loan pay up the whole 
 sum at the time of the first payment, the receipts for 
 such payments in full, are sometimes called heavy horse ; 
 and the receipts for partial payments light horse. 
 
 t An unfortunate dealer in stock, who becomes 
 bankrupt, is termed a lame duck, and his retreat is 
 called waddling out of the alley. 
 
IN LONDON. 261 
 
 For he conceived in the next round 
 
 He might be levelled with the ground, 
 
 Or that some member of the flock 
 
 Would by some means reduce his stock 
 
 Which had already got a fall 
 
 By combination and cabal, 
 
 For he was minus three per cent. 
 
 Before he utter'd a complaint, 
 
 Or showed the smallest inclination 
 
 To hazard any speculation, 
 
 For having seen these bulls and bears • 
 
 Thus make so many quick transfers 
 
 Of personal and real stock 
 
 He thought that it was all mere mock, 
 
 And that the brokers and the bulls 
 
 Had all agreed to make such pulls 
 
 Upon the stock he still possess'd 
 
 That they would not allow him rest ; 
 
 Howe'er they soon were driven by force 
 
 Away by help of some light horse 
 
 Which now came on to his assistance 
 
 And thus prevented all resistance. 
 
 But on receiving back the scrip 
 
 One of the horsemen with his whip 
 
 By chance came round the Doctor's ears 
 
 Which very much increas'd his fears 
 
 That these light horse that just had come 
 
 Were not to raise his omnium, 
 
 But that they meant to play some trick ; 
 
 Yet his instalments came so quick, 
 
 We mean his hat, and wig, and stick, * 
 
262 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 That he began to look around 
 
 Where they could be so quickly found, 
 
 And then at last became convinc'd 
 
 That the gall'd jade had only winc'd ; 
 
 Yet Syntax was not well content 
 
 Upon the whole, at the event 
 
 He'd met 'mong dealers in per cent. 
 
 For where he thought to be amus'd 
 
 He'd only sadly been abus'd, 
 
 And lest the beasts again should rally 
 
 He now resolved to leave the alley. 
 
 He rather, therefore, melancholy 
 Retrac'd his way straight back to Dolly, 
 And told her the adventure strange 
 He'd met upon the Stock Exchange ; 
 Her patience had begun to tire, 
 But now she redden'd with fresh ire 
 To hear how Doctor had been treated 
 'Mong bulls and bears so rudely baited 
 And call'd them all a set of brutes 
 Whose name with their profession suits. 
 But let us leave the bulls and bears 
 To their pursuits, their tricks and cares, 
 That we may take a wider range 
 And see whate'er is new or strange 
 Upon that bustling scene th' Exchange, 
 And now it happen'd just to be 
 About the very hour of three, 
 When the great murmur is begun 
 Of wealth and trade, and rumours run, 
 
IN LONDON. 263 
 
 Making the funds with sudden bang 
 Fly up and down in Alley slang, 
 And every bull and duck and drake 
 And all the alley croakers quake. 
 
 By this time met, there might be seen 
 A crowd of faces looking keen 
 For others that they wished to find, 
 Who possibly were not inclined 
 To come within the sphere of view 
 In case they should hear nothing new, 
 And others wish'd to meet some friend 
 That they were certain would attend 
 Although it might be rather late 
 Before he met him at the gate. 
 In close confab, here you might view 
 The turban'd Turk and bearded Jew, 
 Slave dealers in the land of freedom, 
 Like bravoes, seeking those that need 'em ; 
 Broad bottomed Dutchmen seeking gain, 
 Grimacing crowds from France and Spain 
 Travellers from either Ind, Armenians 
 Tracing and gleaning all dominions, 
 Cits that are worth a double plum 
 Seeking the other paltry sum ; 
 Yankies that take their neighbours in, 
 All jabbering 'mid the venal din. 
 Then here the objects are so strange 
 That no place can compare with 'Change. 
 The crowds that meet from every place 
 With all the hues and forms of face 
 
264 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 That nature or that news can make 
 When property is plac'd at stake ; 
 The dresses and the outlandish talks 
 Seen too and heard upon the walks, 
 Besides the bills, the boards, and puffs 
 That state the price of pills and snuffs 
 And the placards around the walls 
 Make 'Change more curious than the Malls. 
 
 'Tis known that all, both rich and poor 
 Around the Exchange may take a tour, 
 And if they wish, or should think fit 
 They have it in their power to sit. 
 This by the Doctor was perceived 
 And even by it a part reliev'd, 
 For he required a little rest 
 After being so roughly dress'd 
 By the rude shavers in the alley 
 Where it is often rather squally. 
 But madam had no inclination 
 To lose aught by procrastination. 
 She wished directly to proceed 
 Around the place, and then to read 
 Some of the strange placards and boards 
 That this commercial place affords. 
 As Syntax always was inclined 
 To look at things of every kind 
 He did not long remain at rest 
 But soon got up and then expressed 
 His happiness to hear and see 
 Such symptoms of prosperity. 
 
IN LONDON. 
 
 265 
 
 As soon as Doctor left his seat 
 Ma'am plied again her busy feet ; 
 Pleased to remark and idly stare 
 At every thing within the square, 
 And " bless me," oft she cries aloud, 
 ■" I never witness'd such a crowd 
 " Of gentlemen:, in all my life, 
 " And not a lady or a wife 
 " Among them all, but what strange creatures 
 <e Are these with black and ugly features ; 
 " They seem to have upon their backs 
 " A long white sheet, or bags, or sacks, 
 " That nearly trail upon the street ; 
 *' I thought them women come to meet 
 u Their husbands, or some other friends, 
 " That hither come for various ends ; 
 " Are these poor seamen from the wars 
 " Or persons that you call Lascars ?" 
 Thus ma'am described in long oration 
 The costume of the Turkish nation, 
 Till Doctor told her these were Turks 
 With whom the unchristian spirit lurks. 
 i 
 To see the sights and hear the gabble 
 Of Britain's great commercial Babel, 
 Could not be done in one short hour, 
 And Syntax meant to quit at four ; 
 He therefore went to have a look 
 At the extraordinary book 
 In Lloyd's, which he had nearly missed, 
 And oft heard talked of by the List> 
 
26G DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 That furnishes such information 
 Of vessels and their destination, 
 With observations and remarks 
 On all the ships, the brigs, and barks, 
 That carry Britain's trade abroad, 
 O'er all the boundless watery road. 
 As Doctor started thus to go 
 He told his spouse to stop below, 
 For she must know none of the fair 
 Were e'er allowed to go up stair, 
 But he should not detain her long 
 Except the Captains' room was throng. 
 Then quick our venerable man 
 Along the allied staircase ran, 
 Prepared to see the pondrous volume 
 And to inspect each curious column, 
 But there, unable to explore, 
 The passage, he mistook the d oor, 
 And got among the underwriters 
 Who look'd as busy as prize-fighters. 
 Scarce had the Doctor reach'd the fire 
 When he was ordered to retire 
 Because he had no business there, 
 Not being a contributor. 
 At this he was not well content 
 And left the room, but as he went 
 Right opposite he saw a door 
 Which he went into as before, 
 And there discover'd on a table 
 The wondrous page, but was not able 
 Either to read or understand, 
 It look'd so like the scribbling hand 
 
IN LONDON. 267 
 
 That on the wall, as Scripture says, 
 Was written in such wondrous ways. 
 Syntax, in books so wondrous sage,- 
 Now therefore left this curious page, 
 And quick returned to seek for Dolly, 
 Who tired of waiting chid his folly, 
 And hurried off her patient spouse 
 Towards the stately Mansion House, 
 Where London's Mayors presiding sit 
 And show their wisdom and their wit 
 Jn sending vagabonds to jail, 
 And teaching law to ladies frail ; 
 And where, too, London's hospitality 
 Is shown in annual prodigality. 
 
 Our prying pair just took a peep 
 Into the court to hear the deep 
 And learned doctrines there laid down 
 To awe the gentry of the town, 
 And kindly were awhile admitted 
 To see the starving rogues committed ! 
 They had by favour too a small 
 Peep into the Egyptian Hall, 
 Where gobbling reigns on solemn days. 
 And Doctor said, instead of praise, 
 He nought could see from Egypt rare, 
 Except Egyptian darkness there. 
 Thus through the City having gone 
 Our pair returned to Marybone. 
 
 END OF THE TWELFTH CANTO. 
 
268 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 CANTO XIII. 
 
 Strange are the sights that London yields, 
 The most prolific of all fields 
 For gratifying curious eyes, 
 And making even green-horns wise* 
 Strange too the adventures that one meets 
 Sometimes in rambling through the streets. 
 For here, as on peculiar ground, 
 The oddest characters are found, 
 Of all conditions, ranks, degrees, 
 Following their several bents with ease j 
 And almost every corner, lane, 
 And alley dark, is justly vain 
 Of some much celebrated place, 
 Though always not the haunt of grace. 
 
 As if o'er classic regions led 
 The traveller finds beneath his tread 
 The ashes of illustrious dead, 
 And starts to think that now he stands 
 Amid the boast of far famed lands, 
 And that his eyes perhaps survey 
 What thousands in their passing day 
 
IN LONDON. 269 
 
 Have wished to see and have not seen, 
 
 '? 
 
 Though curious even as Sheba's queen ; 
 So oft the stranger rambling through 
 London's vast scene its sights to view, 
 And trace the manners of the throng 
 Who fill its bounds or pass along, 
 Finds with surprise where'er he goes 
 Some place that fame or fancy chose 
 For most remarkable events 
 Or giving pleasurable bents 
 To whim, or whatsoe'er's the rage 
 And striking features of the age. 
 Our Doctor was himself a child 
 Of Fancy, and lov"d places wild, 
 Like any poet of the lakes 
 Who 'mid the rocks his pleasure takes, 
 And knew no more of cant or slang 
 Than silly maids who drown or hang 
 For love, because perhaps their fancy 
 Takes up with Susan, Bet, or Nancy ; . 
 But he had often heard of those 
 Who as the cant and fashion goes 
 Are styled to glorify their lives 
 Lads of the Fancy and the Fives. 
 
 The wishes of our learned man 
 Therefore most naturally ran 
 On seeing those who thus to lead 
 The fancy even will freely bleed. 
 It chanc'd one day as sauntering round 
 St. Martin's consecrated ground, 
 
270 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 To mark the vast improvements making 
 
 Where there indeed was need of raking, 
 
 Though lurking there, I ween, still dwell 
 
 Full many a rogue and wild rakehell, 
 
 The hero of this faithful page 
 
 Paus'd to survey with aspect sage 
 
 The various signs and invitations 
 
 That claim'd awhile his meditations ; 
 
 In labyrinthine streets where mix'd 
 
 In medley strange, you see betwixt 
 
 Coals and potatoes, bread and butter, 
 
 And things I almost fear to utter, 
 
 Matches and eggs, and nice spruce beer, 
 
 And on the wall inviting near 
 
 Strange ! "women's things dyed black " appear. 
 
 As thus our sage his observation 
 Threw careful round his studious station 
 He heard a loud exulting shout 
 As from some motley rabble rout, 
 Issuing from corner strange and dark, 
 Which made our listening sire remark 
 There must be something which his mind 
 Searching the ways of human kind, 
 Might there deem worth a sage's seeing 
 Tho' not with polished tastes agreeing. 
 The crowds that still came pouring down 
 From every quarter of the town, 
 From each famed spot that heroes yields, 
 St. Giles, Duck-lane, and Tothillfields, 
 To the more courtly haunts of whiskers, 
 Must achioed lords and dashing friskers, 
 
IN LONDON. 271 
 
 That crowded in, convincing, showed 
 He was not far from some abode 
 Where people thus of each degree 
 Expected curious sights to see. 
 Then closer scanning the resort 
 He found it was that scene of sport 
 And fistic glory, the Fives Court. 
 
 No Christian soul, no heart humane, 
 Could more abhor the fighting train, 
 And all the arts and trade of strife 
 That oft endanger human life, 
 Than Syntax, who beside his calling, 
 Had a most strong dislike to mauling, 
 And thought that those who love such ravages 
 Were not superior to the savages, 
 Yet still he had an inclination 
 To see their haunt and occupation. 
 So without further self debating, 
 How tongue of slander might be prating, 
 Should a bright honour of the church 
 Be seen within th' unholy porch, 
 Though even, in worldly rank, his betters, 
 Hereditary legislators, 
 Favourites of princes and their graces, 
 Are oft attendants at such places, 
 The Doctor joined the crowd and ventured 
 To thrust his nose where others entered ; 
 But found even here he could not see 
 Nature's worst scenes without a fee. 
 
 This duly paid, though some scarce heeded it, 
 To one who looked as if he needed it, 
 
272 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Syntax passed to the strange sanctorum, 
 
 Where he beheld arranged -before him, 
 
 A wooden stage behind a bar, 
 
 And bruisers ready for a spar, 
 
 With arms outstretched and hideous frown 
 
 For sport to knock each other down. 
 
 A dark and dismal place it seemed 
 
 Where sun-light scarcely ever beamed. 
 
 High were the walls and black as jet, 
 
 Most prison like, and such a set 
 
 Were in that murky precinct met 
 
 As our good Doctor never saw, 
 
 Except those rescued from the law ; 
 
 Yet these were under patronage 
 
 Of the great nobles of the age, 
 
 And hand in hand you here might see 
 
 Each noble with his protege 
 
 From Saffron-hill or vile Duck-lane, 
 
 Of such acquaintance very vain ! 
 
 The scene did Syntax strongly strike — 
 
 He thought that like still draws to like, 
 
 Though rank and riches, and condition, 
 
 Combine to change mankind's ambition. 
 
 But the gladiators in view, 
 And the poised arm, and sharp set-to, 
 Which now attracted the attention 
 Of Syntax and the group we mention, 
 The parry quick, the fib, the close , 
 The rally and the knock down blows, 
 Right handed facers, laying flat 
 The hapless nose like opera hat, 
 
IN LONDON. 273 
 
 The claret spouting like a tap, 
 
 And peepers closed by sudden rap, 
 
 Made Doctor stare with look surprising, 
 
 And quickly changed his moralizing 
 
 To the most culpable degree 
 
 Of folly and barbarity, 
 
 Which now has made the science fistic 
 
 A sort of trait characteristic 
 
 Of this our age and polished nation 
 
 Which claims the praise of reformation. 
 
 Disgusted with the sights in view 
 Though all were lauding the set-to, 
 Our Doctor left this famed resort 
 Of bruisers and the sprigs of Court, 
 And with reflections far more holy, 
 Went slowly home to chat with Dolly. 
 
 4JNU OF THE THIRTEENTH CANTO. 
 
 N N 
 
274 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 CANTO XIV. 
 
 Whoe'er from country town remote 
 And rural vale's sequestered spot 
 Longing to see the world, has come 
 To mix in London's busy hum, 
 And lounge awhile, to gape and stare 
 At all the wonders that are there, 
 Will readily admit that all 
 The strange collection, great and small, 
 That claim as stranger passes by 
 The wonder of the gazing eye, 
 Can't be surveyed in day or week, 
 Or even a month, the truth to speak, 
 Though one had all the eyes of Argus, 
 They lay so many strong embargoes 
 Upon the legs and sense of seeing 
 Of each investigating being, 
 And often, what is felt much worse, 
 They lay a tax upon the purse, 
 As hard to bear by some conditions 
 As Castlereagh's dread impositions. 
 
IN LONDON. 276 
 
 Our pair who felt the attractive power, 
 
 Still lingered in Augusta's bower, 
 
 Though prudent ma'am was often grudging 
 
 Th'expence of living and of lodging, 
 
 For Syntax had to bear, tho' hard, 
 
 The lot of many an anxious bard, 
 
 The unpitying, cruel, long delay 
 
 Of his best hopes, his darling play, 
 
 Which without either rhime or reason 
 
 Was running fast to the next season, 
 
 But not as author wants to run, 
 
 Not blazing like another sun, 
 
 But like the moon or unseen planet, 
 
 Behind a cloud, with none to scan it, 
 
 Though flattered that each night its splendour 
 
 Would make the critic tribe surrender 
 
 The gall they carry in their gullet 
 
 And be as tame as a choaked pullet. 
 
 With pleasure thus and sometimes care 
 
 Went time, till came Bart'lemy Fair, 
 
 Which Mrs. Syntax vowed sincerely 
 
 She'd see, tho' it should cost her dearly. 
 
 When madam took it in her head 
 To stick to any thing she said, 
 As was with her a practice common, 
 And is the case with many a woman, 
 It was in vain for her good man 
 To try to turn aside her plan, 
 Or alter in the least degree 
 Her mind's unchangeable decree, 
 
276 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 That like the Medes' and Persians' law- 
 No alteration ever saw, 
 Or will admit ; so strong the will 
 Of womankind, and such their skill 
 That though for ever disobedient 
 They win us by some new expedient 
 To give consent to tyrant rule 
 That makes the wisest man a fool, 
 And by a bondage largely stor'd 
 With more than freedom can afford, 
 By love's inexorable decree 
 Annihilates our liberty. 
 
 Thus fared it with our sage and wife,. 
 Whenever rose a cause of strife 
 For madam, though the weaker vessel. 
 Was not accustomed e'er to press ill ; 
 Her most Elizabethan mind 
 To reign o'er Syntax seemed design'd, 
 And he like loyal subject bowed 
 And kiss'd the sceptre and the rod, 
 For love in him, the love of peace, 
 Which woman's tongue will oft increase' 
 Taught him that it was wiser, better, 
 To strive to obey than break the fetter,. 
 And not like adverse pigs in string, 
 A host of greater miseries bring, 
 Upon the neck round which the yoke 
 Of Hymen's fixed, ne'er to be broke. 
 
 So Doctor, used to madam's sway, 
 Allowed her still to have her way, 
 
IN LONDON. 277 
 
 And after preparation due, 
 
 They both set out the Fai r to view. 
 
 Following the crowds, the way they got 
 
 To Smithfield's celebrated spot 
 
 Where fires have blazed, and for the sake 
 
 Of faith, at superstition's stake, 
 
 Martyrs have died, to glut the rage 
 
 Of bigots who disgraced the age ; 
 
 Blest change ! where now at market prices 
 
 Are made more blameless sacrifices, 
 
 To please with many a bellyfull, 
 
 The appetites of Johnny Bull. 
 
 There many a milk-white heifer stands*, 
 
 And sheep that crop the flow'ry lands, 
 
 And calves — pray reader do not smile, 
 
 At this our classic Georgian style, 
 
 For calves there are, digram vitulo, 
 
 Who in the train of grandeur follow; 
 
 And there the semblance of good John 
 
 Of England, who upholds the throne, _ 
 
 The glory of the herd, full many 
 
 A Bull, as fait and fat as any 
 
 Was ever offer'd on the shrine 
 
 Of heathen old for Gods to dine, 
 
 On market days you may espy 
 
 Muster'd, as if with piety, 
 
 The priest-like butchers were to lay 
 
 (The men who do not often pray) 
 
 With sacrificial steel and halter 
 
 A hecatomb upon the altar 
 
 Of some propitious god that takes 
 
 A bribe of mutton and beef steaks ; 
 
278 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Where too, with pomp of annual show, 
 Riot and mirth, and copious flow 
 Of gin, and many a little go, 
 Tumblers and swings, and dancing bears, 
 And stands of gingerbread and pears, 
 That best of Saints, Bartholemew, 
 Leads in vast crowds his sportive crew, 
 With always something strange and new, 
 To please the happy cockney train 
 And pamper even the aldermen.* 
 When Mrs. Syntax saw the crowd 
 That filled the place with clamour loud, 
 And mingling with them felt the motion, 
 Of human beings like the ocean 
 Rolling along from side to side, 
 And now upheaving like the tide 
 When in its wide tremendous throat 
 It swallows some poor hapless boat, 
 With fear impressed our loving pair 
 Began to faulter and to stare 
 And wonder how they thus came there. 
 Some short relief howe'er they found 
 When launched upon the open ground, 
 Like bark from narrow creek set free 
 To roam at large in boundless sea. 
 
 * Bartholomew Fair is held by charter, and though 
 many attempts have been made to abolish it, the im- 
 mense revenue it annually brings to the City of London 
 will always be a sufficient guarantee for the continu- 
 ance of this sanctioned mart of vice, riot, and profligacy. 
 
IN LONDON. 279 
 
 Here then they stood like many more 
 
 To gaze the ample prospect o'er 
 
 Of most inviting raree shows 
 
 Displayed in long and goodly rows, 
 
 And mark on every painted screen 
 
 The numerous wonders to be seen 
 
 Within ; the figures on the stages 
 
 That would compel the greatest sages 
 
 To laughter, visum teneates f 
 
 For there, good sirs, you may laugh gratis ; 
 
 The nymphs in buskined pomp, with faces 
 
 As like the red and rosy graces, 
 
 As paint can make them, paint laid thick 
 
 As with a broom or even a stick ; 
 
 And then as many harlequins 
 
 With legs like posts and ghastly grins, 
 
 As if the hapless wretch in dolour 
 
 Was grinning through a horse's collar; 
 
 These all in gay confusion meeting 
 
 To airy sound of music beating, 
 
 " Now advancing, now retreating," 
 
 Now taking others by the nose, 
 
 Now quaffing Hodges' gin so heating, 
 Now tripping madam Punch's clothes, 
 Giants sublime and giantesses, 
 Not over cumbered by their dresses 
 Fire eaters that the flame ne'er wounds, 
 And man that weighs five hundred pounds, 
 Dwarfs, monkeys, and phantasmagoria, 
 Raised from the d — l's dark emporia, 
 
280 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 These all, we say, their power combined 
 To please the idle gazer's mind, 
 And draw from purse howe'er unwilling 
 The slender sixpence or the shilling. 
 Next many a monstrous beast and birth 
 As ever terrified the earth, 
 Or sprung from mercenary conception 
 Of fertile artists in deception, 
 Attracts attention and affrights 
 With hideous howl and dreadful sights. 
 Here in his cage, not boundless wood , 
 Some starving lion roars for food, 
 Some tiger from the Strand or badger 
 Decides some clown.or cockney's wager ; 
 A serpent there, Boa Constrictor, 
 Employs full many a grave conjecture, 
 Though in his wandering course old Boa 
 Has travelled from Japan to Goa, 
 And from Bengal to Europe o'er 
 Exhibiting his tail and power, 
 Assuming all the nomenclature 
 That suits his snaky, serpent nature. 
 
 Where the air rings with laughter loud 
 A sly buffoon allures the crowd ; 
 Drawn by the magic of his face 
 And mirth and wit, they throng the place 
 There humble scenes to all present 
 Men's follies in their wide extent, 
 The triumph gay, the battle's rage, 
 The feast and pastimes, crowd the stage, 
 
IN LONDON. 281 
 
 While, like a giant, o'er the whole 
 
 Stalks with huge paunch the wondrous droll, 
 
 Whose belly large, and unconfined, 
 
 Is balanced by a hump behind. 
 
 Our pair beheld awhile the train, 
 
 So fondly of their gambols vain, 
 
 Then Mrs. Syntax aptly said 
 
 The Doctor should encourage trade 
 
 By seeing what there was behind 
 
 The curtain to engage the mind ; 
 
 The expence was scarcely worth the mention 
 
 Tho' 'twere unworthy of attention. 
 
 She wisely thought they therefore should, 
 
 Now they were there, see all they could : 
 
 She cared not for the puppet-show 
 
 But much she wished to see and know 
 
 The giantess who without art 
 
 Acted so faultlessly her part, 
 
 That like an Amazonian fair, 
 
 She could upon her bosom bear 
 
 A ponderous weight, much heavier than 
 
 The pressure of fat alderman, 
 
 Or he whose body without fun 
 
 Amounted just to half a tun. 
 
 As ma'am upon this sight was bent, 
 She and the Doctor inward went, 
 And there were mingled in a trice 
 With company not over nice, 
 Which made our fair turn up her nose 
 And wonder that at twopenny shows 
 They have not boxes as at theatres 
 To separate folks genteel from creatures 
 
 o o 
 
282 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Who have, she said, no better breeding 
 Than hogs that in the stye are feeding, 
 And though your elbows make resistance 
 They will not keep their proper distance. 
 
 Behind the blanket wedged and crammed, 
 By vile tobacco smokers jammed, 
 Syntax and his illustrious lady, 
 Stood till the giantess was ready 
 And till their patience had a trial 
 Would tire the strongest self-denial. 
 
 When the kind keeper of the fair 
 Who thus in secret " caused their care," 
 Still, on the other penny bent, 
 Had filled his pockets and his tent, 
 And by the crowd and exhalation 
 The place approached to suffocation, 
 Favoured at length by time and fortune, 
 Uprose the dirty tatter'd curtain, 
 And to the astonished eye display'd 
 An Amazonian fair, but made 
 Of wax, of virgin wax 'twas said*; 
 A thrifty fair, that by God's blessing, 
 Stood not in need of endless dressing, 
 Such as you see with shoulders broad, 
 In barber's window a -la-mode, 
 With top-knots high and bosom bare 
 To emblem forth the modern fair, 
 And make the lounging puppies stare. 
 Our lady gaped in mute surprise 
 And scarcely could believe her eyes ; 
 
IN LONDON. 283 
 
 If that was all was to be seen 
 
 She would not give a single pin 
 
 To see a foolish waxen figure 
 
 Tho' it was twenty times much bigger. 
 
 As for the rascal of a showman, 
 
 Thus to put forth a waxen Woman , 
 
 For giantess of flesh and blood, 
 
 The cheating, vile, rapscallion should 
 
 Be sent to prison of th' Old Bailey 
 
 And kept on bread and water daily. 
 
 The crowd exclaimed, " a cheat ! a cheat !" 
 
 And Lady Wax was forced to beat, 
 
 A most precipitate retreat. 
 
 But this we sadly grieve to say, 
 Was not the whole of this strange play : 
 It happened by an odd fatality, 
 As things will oft do in reality 
 A carpenter who by disaster 
 Was passing o'er the slippery plaster* 
 Of neighbouring house, that jutting bent 
 It's eves o'er giantess's tent, 
 Came tumbling down with sudden drop 
 Upon the waxen lady's top, 
 And through the canvass made his way 
 Without " sirs, by your leave" or pay, 
 Creating a most strange confusion 
 And giving some a hard contusion ; 
 With indignation the kind keeper 
 Of lady giantess, the sleeper, 
 
 * This circumstance actually happened at the late 
 Bartholomew Fair. 
 
284 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Fell on the carpenter with rage, 
 And would have acted on the stage 
 A tragic scene, but was himself 
 Soon pummelled for his love of pelf. 
 Till he could scarcely see the way. 
 To turn him in the vengeful fray. 
 
 Meanwhile our Doctor and his wife 
 Contriv'd to 'scape this scene of strife, 
 And to a place of safety got, 
 With many a hole in Doctor's coat, 
 And on good madam's many a spot. 
 But worse misfortune still they found 
 Had yet befallen them on that ground- 
 Their pockets in the rabble rout 
 Were dextrously turned inside out, 
 And all that they contained abstracted 
 While the 'bove tragedy was acted,. 
 And not a shilling left to pay 
 A coach upon their homeward way. 
 
 END OF THE FOURTEENTH CANTO. 
 
IN LONDON. 285 
 
 CANTO XV. 
 
 A bolder, yet a bolder strain 
 Sing, brightest of the Muses' train, 
 Thou who hast fondly chosen to follow 
 Syntax, the favourite of Apollo ; 
 A higher, yet a higher view, 
 Dare, Epio Mistress ! to pursue, 
 Ambition and the pride of Court 
 Invite thy footsteps to resort 
 Even to the palaces of princes 
 Where every thing you see evinces 
 That some with silver spoon are born 
 While others' mouths must bear the horn ; 
 And that it is a pretty thing 
 To be a Regent or a King. 
 They, though their subjects feel privation 
 Even to the climax of starvation, 
 Ne'er feel the pangs of want that spread 
 Distraction through the lowly shed ; 
 
 But roll like our illustrious R 1 
 
 'Midst luxury and the gayest pageant. 
 
286 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Who has not felt desire to see 
 The sacred face of majesty 1 
 Who has not heaved the ambitious sigh, 
 When glittering coach was rattling by 
 To Carlton House or old Saint James's, 
 (Which now no haunt of beauteous dames is,) 
 To mingle with the happy throng 
 That to the levee roll'd along ? 
 Who has not wished to be presented 
 And by a sovereign complimented, 
 On aught that strikes the royal noddle, 
 Happy as through the crowd they toddle 
 With a most gracious smile t 'enrich them, 
 And all their after days bewitch them, — 
 In that fallacious honour reading 
 A host of future glories breeding ? 
 
 We need not say if one there be 
 Who from such courtly wish is free, 
 That Mrs. Syntax was not she. 
 Our lady had a strong ambition 
 To shine 'mong people of condition, 
 But Fate's inexorable rigour 
 Would not allow to sport her figure 
 At Court, and show her rosy bloom 
 And manners in the Drawing Room. 
 But Syntax might, she made averment, 
 Find that a straight road to preferment , 
 And much she wondered that the glory 
 Of classic page and modern story 
 Had not already honored been 
 By being at the Levee seen, 
 
IN LONDON. 287 
 
 And had his name and public worth 
 
 In print diurnal blazoned forth, 
 
 Among the list of presentations 
 
 For holding honourable stations, 
 
 And sometimes — for Heaven knows what merit, 
 
 Except the fortune they inherit. 
 
 She thought he might by help of some 
 
 Most splendid work or pond'rous tome, 
 
 Or by some flattery well timed, 
 
 Loyal, and elegantly rhymed, 
 
 Obtain a bishopric, perchance, 
 
 As well as those who ever dance 
 
 Attendance at the heels of Court 
 
 And furnish books, and sometimes sport 
 
 To princes who like pleasure better 
 
 Then either sermons or belle lettre. 
 
 Syntax could talk like those who preach 
 Of things beyond our mortal reach, 
 Of the vain pride of man, and Courts 
 That are to vanity resorts, 
 And often profligacy's samples 
 Instead of virtuous examples, 
 And stimulants to noble deeds 
 From which a pure renown proceeds, 
 Yet even our reverend sage could not 
 From his imagination blot 
 The honour that adorns a name 
 When in the courtly rank of fame ; 
 And when 'tis said you've kiss'd the hand 
 Of the great Lama of the land. 
 
288 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 It chanced to be a levee day 
 When our good couple thus gave way 
 To thoughts ambitious, that will start 
 Even in the best and humblest heart. 
 
 Madam beheld the preparation 
 Made for the envied presentation 
 By some of her high favour'd friends 
 To whom Dame Fortune honours sends, 
 As if there were no other people 
 Connected with the church or steeple 
 Deserving of a gracious smile, 
 Or fitted to adorn the aisle 
 With mitred crown upon their head, 
 Or with a star or title spread 
 Respect for worth and dignity 
 And royalty's benignity. 
 Our fair, we say, beheld th' approach 
 Of all these triumphs, and each coach 
 That gaily rattled o'er the stone 
 Of fashionable Marybone, 
 With such a gaze and wistful thinking 
 As envious Satan look'd o'er Lincoln ; 
 She little thought, nor could divine, 
 What glories in resplendent line, 
 Were just about to fall upon her 
 And cover Syntax' head with honour; 
 
 How inky dark 's futurity ! 
 No wonder Madam could not see 
 Into the chapter of events 
 When there is something that prevents 
 
IN LONDON. 289 
 
 Even men of learning from foreseeing 
 
 What's just at hand to every being ; 
 
 And when the memories of the wise 
 
 That are a sort of mental spies, 
 
 Traitors become, and cannot keep 
 
 From the forgetfulness of sleep. 
 
 Even Syntax knew not of the glory 
 
 That now was to illume his story, 
 
 Though this he found was now the day 
 
 When he had promis'd late to pay 
 
 A visit, which he had forgot, 
 
 With a most pondrous Polyglot, 
 
 To Bishop Doublechin, who loves 
 
 To patronize what taste approves; 
 
 We mean that sort of taste which treats 
 
 In learned tongues of what one eats, 
 
 And of the very best of dishes, 
 
 Of rarest wines, and meats, and fishes ; 
 
 Of what the Romans had for dinner, 
 
 Or supper'd some old heathen sinner. 
 
 A knock and message now reminded 
 Our sage, whose mem'ry had been blinded, 
 Of this his promise and his duty 
 Which he to Dolly, darling beauty, 
 Communicated straight, and said 
 It was the fault of his poor head 
 That he had not inform'd his dear 
 This great engagement was so near : 
 He now, no longer things to hush up, 
 Must see the venerable Bishop 
 Who was he well knew to resort 
 That day like all the great to Court. 
 p p 
 
§90 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 This Mrs. Syntax heard with look 
 That spoke as well as any book, 
 The soft reproaches of her heart 
 Because the sage did not impart 
 ^AU, that concern'd their mutual weal 
 To her who was so formed to feel ; 
 Particularly such great matters 
 As their acquaintance with their betters, 
 Which now, she said with seeming love, 
 It was their duty to improve. 
 Good Bishop Doublechin she knew 
 Had always something nice in view, 
 And was moreover high in grace 
 At Court, where oft he show'd his face, 
 And knew the manners of the place. 
 Full oft, before he was a bishop, 
 He'd prais'd the things that she could dish up, 
 Her calves' head soup, made with such pains, 
 That show'd in her no want of brains, 
 And dumplings, currant wine, and jelly, 
 Fit even for an Archbishop's belly. 
 She doubted not the worthy prelate 
 On slight suggestion would not fail at 
 The gracious source of all preferment, 
 If Syntax was but thus determined, 
 To introduce and to show forth 
 The luminary of the North ; 
 And who would not, she wish'd to know, 
 Such an inviting chance forego 
 Of being placed at once so high , , 
 Before the wondering public eye ? 
 
IN LONDOV. 291 
 
 If Syntax lost such opportunity 
 She'd grieve to think upon their unity. 
 
 With such suggestions in his ear 
 The illustrious Doctor left his dear, 
 First having dress'd him in array 
 Fitting the purpose of the day, 
 And then straight forward took his way 
 To that great enemy of sin 
 The rotund, rubied Doublechin, 
 Whose nose with inward flame is bright 
 And to the world's " a burning light," 
 Whereby they may even in the dark 
 Pursue of grace the glorious spark. 
 When our good Doctor made his call 
 He found his Lordship Spiritual 
 Prepared to make his grave congee 
 Before the throne of majesty, 
 And smoothing down his chin so double 
 Sav'd Syntax' modesty the trouble 
 Of venturing on Ma'am's suggestion, 
 By putting to our sage the question 
 If he would like to be presented 
 And with the manners made acquainted 
 Of courts and levees, where so many 
 Are striving honour to obtain ay. 
 He thought he might for learning's sake 
 Upon himself the duty take 
 Of introducing to the throne 
 A character, so justly known. 
 
 Syntax, whose mind was roused to action, 
 Could not disguise the satisfaction 
 
292 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 That he should feel and proudly own 
 
 Thus with his grace to approach the throne, 
 
 And knowing well the pride and pleasure 
 
 That it would give beyond all measure 
 
 To her who bore a part in all 
 
 His joys and sorrows great and small ; 
 
 He therefore told the worthy prelate 
 
 Who seemed in friendship such a zealot, 
 
 How much he honoured was by mention 
 
 Of such obliging condescension. 
 
 It was a favour which no Vicar, 
 
 Doctor, or bard, except in liquor, 
 
 Could e'er refuse — he'd gladly go 
 
 At humble distance just to show 
 
 His loyalty, and make his bow. 
 
 His grace was highly pleased to see 
 And praised the Doctor's modesty, 
 But said it might perhaps be better 
 For our good sage to take some matter 
 To lay upon the royal shrine, 
 Some volume bound superbly fine, 
 A tour, a play, or even a sermon, 
 Tho' that was hated now like vermin 
 Within the precincts of a court, 
 Or if he could the weight support 
 Of that huge Polyglot, which he 
 Had given as large a glossary, 
 He might claim honour for the toil 
 And haply get an envied smile ; 
 A pond'rous work like that would now 
 Assist him much to make his bow, 
 
IN LONDON. 293 
 
 And show to all who were discerning 
 The great extent of Syntax' learning. ' 
 
 This truth our sage disputed not, 
 Then up he took the Polyglot, 
 And straight prepared a short oration 
 For its most solemn presentation. 
 
 Now in the carriage of his grace 
 See Doctor Syntax take his place 
 Beside that ornament so great 
 And pillar of the church and state, 
 The Janus faced and spiritual Lord 
 Who loves so well the temporal board; 
 And well the contrast might excite 
 A smile to mark each rev'rend wight ; 
 Syntax with chops so lank and thin 
 Placed cheek by jowl with Doublechin ! 
 And wrapt in pleasurable thought, 
 Hugging the pondrous Polygot. 
 
 In state they rolled, and as they rode 
 Syntax with pious wishes glowed 
 That he too were a father in God ! 
 Through many a gaping crowd they passed 
 And got to Carlton House at last 
 Where the white wands now ushered in 
 My lord the Bishop Doublechin, 
 And Doctor Syntax, the illustrious 
 Son of the muse, and most industrious 
 Collector of the picturesque 
 United now with the grotesque, 
 
294 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 For in his arras he still had got 
 That pondrous load the Polyglot. 
 His name so famed, pronounced aloud, 
 Was heard by all the courtly crowd, 
 And drew the wondering gaze of all 
 Who stood and gaped within the hall, 
 Waiting on legs as tired I ween, 
 (Such is the happy courtly scene) 
 As if they'd gone a hundred miles, — 
 To catch the wish'd for royal smiles. 
 
 The crowd of patient hangers on 
 And those who thus surround the throne 
 To worship like the blear-eyed Magi 
 Till they are blind, scarce let our sage see 
 Aught of the noble residence, 
 So famed for its magnificence, 
 Where Britain's Regent holds his court, 
 When there's no other pleasing sport, 
 About the Kremlin or Pavilion 
 Or in an Isle of Wight cotillion ; 
 But still our Doctor as he passed 
 A searching glance around him cast 
 On the saloons and decorations 
 Showing the splendour of the nations 
 O'er which our most illustrious Regent 
 Exalts his sway and royal pageant ; 
 The specimens of painting rare, 
 And arms, that arms are wanted there ! 
 Pil'd on all sides, from Heaven knows where. 
 
Efi 
 
 - 
 
 9 
 
IN LONDON. 295 
 
 At length into the presence chamber 
 They usher'd were, where many a member 
 Of church and state stood round the throne 
 On which our royal Regent shone 
 Like eastern''Lama or Kien Long 
 Worshipped by all the adoring throng, 
 Who bent the knee and happy were 
 To get a smile or royal stare. 
 It would have made Heraclitus 
 Himself have smiled to see the fuss 
 That quick took place among the throng 
 When Doctor Syntax came along, 
 Bearing his mountain of research 
 With that bright honour of the church 
 His friend the Bishop Doublechin, 
 Who led the learned Doctor in, 
 And to the image of all glory 
 Presented him so famed in story, 
 Syntax, the learn'd, renown'd, and sage, 
 The honour of the present age, 
 With whose rare talent for expounding 
 The great metropolis was resounding 
 Witness his Tour o'er every spot, 
 And that most pondrous Polyglot — 
 Here Syntax, bowing to the ground 
 With his huge load, and look profound, 
 Laid down the Polyglot upon 
 The footstep of the glittering throne, 
 And would have prefaced his oblation 
 By a most eloquent oration, 
 Had not the royal patron seen 
 The labouring speech in Syntax' mien, 
 
296 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And stopt most graciously his tongue 
 
 By telling Doctor it was long 
 
 Since he had known his worth and fame, 
 
 And that when next to Court he came 
 
 Nor he nor his huge Polyglot, 
 
 He might rely, should be forgot. 
 
 Syntax, delighted thus to hear 
 His fame had reached the royal ear, 
 And grateful for the smile so precious, 
 And marks of royal favour gracious, 
 Conferred upon him, bent his back 
 As if with honour it would crack ; 
 Till his good friend the bishop hinted 
 That time by etiquette was stinted 
 In such a place, and that he now 
 Should lowly make his farewell bow, 
 And thus retire, for he might see 
 The looks and words of majesty 
 Were now to other folks addressed 
 Who like a current forward press'd ; 
 Dimpling, and eager to reflect 
 The smile of such supreme effect 
 That not a beauty at a ball, 
 Envied and courted, praised by all, 
 Did e'er to simple lover's heart 
 Such joy or jealousies impart : 
 Some got a whole length smile, and some 
 Got looks they thought were rather glum 
 Others, arrived at higher bliss, 
 Had e'en the royal hand to kiss. 
 
IN LONDON,. 2S7 
 
 While some like Syntax bent so low 
 They would have kissed — the royal toe. 
 
 The levee o'er, Syntax elate 
 Proud as a minister of state 
 Retiring from the council board 
 With his kind friend, the reverend lord, 
 Withdrew from court — our sage to dine 
 With Doublechin, and drink some wine 
 Which the good bishop said he could 
 Commend as being sterling good, 
 And fit the stomach to recruit 
 Through which the wind began to shoot. 
 
 A sumptuous feast we need not say, 
 Upon the bishop's table lay 
 And our most venerable pair 
 Soon made sad havoc 'mong the fare. 
 We will not tell, as long they'd fasted, 
 How long the inviting dinner lasted, 
 Nor will we take the privilege 
 For it would smell of sacrilege, . 
 To say how many bottles flowed 
 To warm their pious, holy blood ; 
 Enough to add, sufficient went 
 The Bishop's sacred nose to paint 
 And send our Doctor rather jolly 
 At proper time home to his Dolly, 
 To tell her, if he could, the honour 
 Had fallen that day through him upon her, 
 Q Q 
 
298 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 By his most happy presentation 
 
 To the great ruler of the nation ; 
 
 And last, he well might say not least, 
 
 The pleasure of the Bishop's feast, 
 
 And all the glories past revealing 
 
 Which thus had homeward sent him reeling. 
 
 END OF THE FIFTEENTH CANTO. 
 
IN LONDON. 299 
 
 CANTO XVI. 
 
 How Doctor pacified his Dolly 
 For being over-night so jolly, 
 We will not venture to impart, 
 'Tis certain that our lady's heart 
 Felt in the morning very gay 
 To hear our sage had found the way 
 To Court, and been among the great 
 Who shine the glories of the state. 
 To be presented was indeed 
 An honour high, and then to read 
 His name displayed among the throng 
 Who to the favoured list belong, 
 Gave her still more a flattering notion 
 Of Doctor's fame and sure promotion. 
 A Bishopric, she now was certain, 
 Must be her honour'd spouse's fortune, 
 And Lady Lawnsleeves now would see 
 That Dolly would her equal be. 
 
300 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Our pair now held a consultation 
 To take into consideration 
 What other objects yet remained 
 And what this capital contained 
 Which was deserving of inspection 
 But had escaped their recollection. 
 At last, says Syntax, " We have been 
 " Where every thing is to be seen 
 " That can be said to claim attention, 
 " But yet, my dear, if you can mention 
 u An edifice or public place 
 " Where you would wish to show your face 
 " I'm ever ready to attend ye, 
 " And with my arm even to defend ye." 
 Here Mrs. Syntax said she heard 
 There was a place that had a guard 
 Styled the Museum, full of things 
 As strange as any traveller brings 
 From Afric's shore or Owhyhee, 
 Which every party went to see, 
 And could remain from ten to three. 
 The wonders of that great Museum 
 She long had much desired to see 'em, 
 Because they would mot need to pay 
 As at a theatre or a play, 
 And therefore she should wish to go 
 To see the place an hour or so ; 
 For she was told such things were there 
 That Smithfield nor Bartholemew Fair 
 Could boast of objects half so various ; 
 Besides it was not so precarious, 
 
IN LONDON. 301 
 
 For persons there are more genteel 
 
 Than to investigate or feel 
 
 What people carried in their pockets, 
 
 And then set off as quick as rockets 
 
 With every thing that they contain, > 
 
 Ah J never to return again, 
 
 Like the vile wretches that will dare 
 
 To bruise and rob you at a fair. 
 
 At this the Doctor said he knew 
 
 That what she said was very true ; 
 
 They ought not to delay th' inspection 
 
 Of that grand national collection, 
 
 And though there might be bulls and bears 
 
 Yet they would be as shy as hares 
 
 Because they neither roar nor range 
 
 Like those upon the Stock Exchange ; 
 
 He therefore would conduct here there 
 
 For it was close by Russel Square 
 
 Through which they twice had passed before 
 
 And saw the soldiers at the door. 
 
 With this intention off they set 
 And very soon came to the gate, 
 Whjch Syntax quickly opens wide 
 To let his wife walk by his side. 
 He then with pleasure looked around 
 On all the clean and circled ground, 
 And when he saw the marble columns 
 He said that these great stones spoke volumes ; 
 But Mrs. Syntax said that she 
 Could not find out how that could be, 
 
302 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 For there was nothing but the size 
 
 And broken joints that struck her eyes ; 
 
 No word or sentence could be seen 
 
 To make it known what they had been, 
 
 Nor from what country of the world 
 
 Such monstrous stones were brought or hurled. 
 
 This Syntax said he would explain 
 
 To spouse when they got home again, 
 
 And then he walk'd into the hall 
 
 Where madam bounded like a ball 
 
 Among the crowd that was conven'd 
 
 For fear of being hid or screen'd ; 
 
 But Syntax did not need to try 
 
 One single art to catch the eye 
 
 Of those assembled in the hall, 
 
 For every one both great and small 
 
 Came round the Doctor all at once 
 
 As if he had designed to dance. 
 
 But when he walked towards the table 
 
 To write his name, he was not able, 
 
 The people pressed so close to see 
 
 Our Doctor of celebrity. 
 
 At last a little space was got 
 
 And " Doctor Syntax" being wrote, 
 
 His name and titles read aloud 
 
 So much amazed the anxious crowd 
 
 That some proposed to go in pairs 
 
 And bear him on their heads up stairs, 
 
 But those that stood and kept the door 
 
 Said that was never done before, 
 
 And that it could not be allow'd, 
 
 To which the Doctor only bow'd ; 
 
IS LONDON. 303 
 
 Then walk'd up stairs the common way 
 
 With an intention to survey 
 
 The works of nature and of art 
 
 Which have been brought from every part 
 
 That man has ever yet explor'd, 
 
 Or has been conquered by the sword, 
 
 From Otaheite to Labradore, 
 
 And altogether make a store 
 
 Which connoisseur nor virtuoso 
 
 From Copenhagen to Tortosa 
 
 Could reconnoitre in a year, 
 
 Altho' his eyes were quite as clear 
 
 And also in as great perfection 
 
 As any cat's before dissection. 
 
 But as our party just went there 
 
 To look at things as at a fair 
 
 They had not time to criticise 
 
 The length of tail or kind of eyes 
 
 Of every beast in the collection, 
 
 Nor yet bestow a close inspection 
 
 On what was curious or rare ; 
 
 But after they got up the stair 
 
 Their eyes were rivetted like nails 
 
 Upon the teeth, the tongues, and tails 
 
 Of those wild animals that stand 
 
 As if united in a band 
 
 To guard the entrance to the rooms 
 
 Which hold the cloaks, the coats, and plumes 
 
 The rattles, whistles, and canoes, 
 
 That none but savages can use. 
 
 Then, after looking at this guard 
 
 Commanded by a cameleopard, 
 
304 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 They walk'd straight forward to the cases 
 That held the savage wooden faces 
 With all the dresses, clubs, and toys 
 Used by the women, men, and boys 
 In Otaheite, Owhy-hee, 
 And islands of the great South Sea, 
 Which Captain Cook and Joseph Banks 
 Placed here for nothing else but thanks. 
 
 When Mrs. Syntax saw this store 
 And all the tables on the floor 
 Containing lots of stones and metals 
 She look'd all round for pots and kettles, 
 Supposing that there was a sale 
 For vending hardware by retail, 
 But Syntax quickly put her right 
 And told her not to use her sight 
 Without some just consideration, 
 For all belong'd to this great nation, 
 And was kept there for public view, 
 At great expence and trouble too. 
 He then went forward to explore 
 The next great rooms upon the floor 
 Which Dolly said she thought as strange 
 As the long shop at Ex'ter Change, 
 But then the passages and cases 
 As well as number of the faces 
 Greatly exceeded what were there 
 Although it was a thoroughfare. 
 They then began to walk around 
 To view the stones that had been found 
 
IN LONDON. 305 
 
 Red hot, and smoking from the moon, 
 
 Without the aid of a balloon ; 
 
 But though they have been sent so far 
 
 She said a diamond, or a bar 
 
 Of gold, or even a fowl or pheasant, 
 
 Would have been a much better present 
 
 Than stones so rudely tumbled down 
 
 They might have broke some people's crown. 
 
 Our sage meanwhile walk'd to the centre 
 
 To view the work of some great painter 
 
 Who has upon the ceiling spread 
 
 A banquet of the illustrious dead, 
 
 Where you may see the whole mythology 
 
 Hung up aloft without apology. 
 
 But Syntax was no connoisseur 
 
 And only wanted to be sure 
 
 That he had seen and pored o'er all 
 
 Before they quitted the great hall, 
 
 To go and see the crabs and fishes 
 
 Which Dolly said would make good dishes 
 
 If they had been but fresh and nice, 
 
 And then well dress'd with salt and spice. 
 
 But when she heard they'd lain in state 
 
 For years, she said it is too late 
 
 To think of using them for food 
 
 Because they cannot now be good. 
 
 Howe'er, to save a flow of words 
 
 The Doctor mov'd towards the birds 
 
 Which he inspected with great care, 
 
 And then considered how the air 
 
 Which is so light could keep afloat 
 
 Those creatures that could beat a boat 
 
 In speed, and over lake and sea 
 
 Untired, to distant countries flee. 
 
 R K 
 
306 DOCTOK SYNTAX 
 
 But Mrs. Syntax only thought 
 
 Where such fine feathers could be bought, 
 
 For she declared their wings and tails 
 
 Or what the Doctor call'd their sails 
 
 Were grander than she yet had seen 
 
 In any shop where she had been. 
 
 " Come now, my dear," the Doctor says, 
 
 " We have to see the Portland Vase 
 
 " And many other works of art ; 
 
 " Let us then from this room depart 
 
 " For we have seen so much of nature 
 
 " That the proportion and the stature 
 
 " Of animals of every kind 
 
 " Must be imprinted on our mind." 
 
 They then went up among the vases 
 
 And other lumber that amazes 
 
 All those that ever saw the store 
 
 Collected on the second floor. 
 
 They gazed awhile at what our fair 
 
 Was pleased to call the crockery ware, 
 
 And then went down stairs to the place 
 
 Where there was many a marble face 
 
 Of man, horse, woman, dog and demon 
 
 And bodies without legs, like seamen 
 
 Who have been dipt, and wing'd in battle 
 
 And also heads and tails of cattle 
 
 That would astonish and surprize 
 
 By their odd figures and their size 
 
 The wisest connoisseur in statues, 
 
 And even perhaps a whole Senatus. 
 
 Here Syntax said, as well as Dolly, 
 
 There could not be a greater folly 
 
 Than squandering cash for such a number 
 
 Of legs, and arms, and useless lumber ; 
 
IN L0NB0N. 307 
 
 They therefore left each broken bust 
 Like many more, in great disgust. 
 
 They met and gazed on their return 
 At many an old and useless urn, 
 And were awhile the pleased spectators 
 Of mummies and fierce gladiators, 
 And as they now had seen the whole, 
 Even the wild dogs from the North Pole, 
 They left the national Museum 
 And home returned to sing Te Deum. 
 
 END OF THE SIXTEENTH CANTO. 
 
308 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 CANTO XVII. 
 
 At length the day, momentous, came 
 Decreed to raise our Doctor's fame 
 To summit of dramatic glory 
 By means of his great tragic story, 
 Or by damnation's fatal power 
 To blast the toil of learning's hour, 
 And to the musty shelf consign 
 Full many a sadly laboured line. 
 Eventful crisis for the bard 
 Whose means are like his labours hard ! 
 Who strives throughout the live-long day 
 To catch but one immortal ray, 
 Or ponders o'er the glimmering light 
 (Would that his brains were half as bright) 
 Expectant of the Muse's smiles 
 Who loiters, heedless of his wiles ; 
 But far more painful is the state 
 Of him whom fame has rendered great, 
 And who, that glory to sustain, 
 Must shew a weightier load of brain ; 
 He who with fancied skill has wrought 
 A master-piece of costly thought 
 
IN LONDON. 309 
 
 That shows a brighter crop of bays 
 
 Than ever graced a poet's lays, 
 
 To find the dread ordeal nigh 
 
 That is again his skill to try, 
 
 Proclaim'd in some diurnal print 
 
 By inuendo or broad hint, 
 
 To rouse the keen enquiring sense 
 
 And swell the day's intelligence, 
 
 So stood our learned Doctor now, 
 
 The laurel nodding o'er his brow, 
 
 For now the pleasing intimation 
 
 Of the long wished representation 
 
 Of his unrivall'd piece was brought 
 
 And filled his mind with anxious thought ; 
 
 For Fancy with her magic sway 
 
 That loves such sportive tricks to play, 
 
 Had from Elysian sources drawn 
 
 The choicest tints of fortune's dawn ; 
 
 She bade the fair illusion rise 
 
 That crown'd with fame his enterprize ; 
 
 Propitious sung of halcyon days 
 
 And deck'd him with the choicest bays. 
 
 But while he thus confess'd her reign, 
 
 And wooed her o'er and o'er again 
 
 To strew life's path with sweetest flowers, 
 
 And give to joy his future hours, 
 
 Perplexing doubt would intervene 
 
 And rudely change the glowing scene. 
 
 To see one's work neglected lay 
 
 Is but the sorrow of a day ; 
 
 To read the quaint reviewer's line 
 
 Who scarcely can its faults define, 
 
 Excites but little pain or grief, 
 
 But where, alas J is found relief 
 
310 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 When censure universal falls, 
 
 And loud damnation shakes the walls ? 
 
 'Tis thus with those who would essay 
 To reap reward by scenic play ; 
 Who venture to address the mind 
 In language pure and scenes refined ; 
 Picturing the mazy field of man 
 To shew his thoughts — his passions scan, 
 Who aim to mark the lofty course 
 That gives sublimity its force, 
 Or bend to breathe the lighter strain, 
 And more familiar truths explain. 
 
 The last rehearsal had arrived, 
 And Syntax' wakeful mind contrived 
 Behind the scenes to claim a place 
 Where in the evening he might trace 
 The business of the Thespian crew, 
 And gain unseen a perfect view 
 Of those convened to criticise 
 His muse's darling enterprize. 
 For he was candid to confess 
 That much depended on the press, 
 And though unknown to those who might 
 Remarks upon his work indite, 
 Yet still, without Lavater's creed, 
 He could the sapient purpose read 
 Of those with ready pen who sit 
 Like Aristarchus in the pit, 
 And watch an author or an actor 
 As cat eyes mouse — just to dissect her. 
 Yet not less anxious was our sage 
 More general objects to engage : 
 
IN LONDON. 311 
 
 The audience too, he wisely plann'd 
 His vision should throughout command, 
 And ever heedful not to rouse 
 The anger of his faithful spouse 
 Who longed to tread old Drury's maze 
 And on the various wonders gaze, 
 He kindly sought the manager 
 Accommodation to confer 
 Upon his Dolly, that she might 
 Be a spectator of the sight, 
 And all her Doctor's glory see, 
 His triumph and celebrity. 
 
 To Syntax' agitated breast 
 By hope and fear alike possessed 
 Each lingering minute seemed an age 
 Till he was figuring on the stage. 
 At early hour fam'd Drury's scite 
 Became the beacon for the night, 
 And crowds succeeding crowds advanced 
 While those around the doors — entranced 
 Reck'd nothing of their tedious stay 
 But talk'd of Syntax and his play. 
 Fresh numbers every moment came, 
 A proof of Syntax' matchless fame. 
 Each avenue sent back ere long 
 A wide extended anxious throng ; 
 The fruit-stalls too were swept away 
 And oranges and apples lay 
 With polished nuts and many a sweet 
 Unseemly scattered in the street. 
 Here ladies fainting sought the air, 
 While many a fond devoted pair 
 
312 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 The 'vantage seized for youthful play 
 And kissed and toyed the time away, 
 Close wedged the pocket soon deplored 
 The loss its owner's care had stored ; 
 The handkerchiefs with spicy gales 
 Perfumed — the snuff-box that prevails 
 In every circle now where Paris 
 Fribourg, Rappee, or Dutch the care is, 
 Quick vanished, and rich triumphs gave 
 To the expert light-fingered knave. 
 
 At length the massive bolts were heard 
 Which ingress had till now debarred. 
 Delightful sound to those, I ween, 
 Who foremost formed the motley scene. 
 To paint the conflict that arose 
 The menaces — the sturdy blows, 
 The screams, the cries that rent the air, 
 The dreadful rush when every care 
 On self devolved, we'll not essay, — 
 They best such objects can pourtray 
 Whose sides and elbows can tell how 
 They bruise at a theatric row. 
 By simultaneous motion borne 
 And vests and clothes unseemly torn, 
 The crowd at length the vortex gained 
 Where pleased the Muses long have reigned, 
 And taught with smiles or precepts sage 
 Their ethic lessons to the age, 
 To wake the idler to a sense 
 Of folly's weak and vain pretence 
 Where Guilt uprears her snaky crest, 
 Or wears Contrition's sainted vest ; 
 
IN LONDON. 313 
 
 Where godlike Virtue spreads her charms, 
 
 Or with resistless force disarms 
 
 The deadly passions that essay 
 
 To please, to flatter, and betray ; 
 
 Nor could the pantomimic art 
 
 A transformation e'er impart 
 
 With that celerity that flung 
 
 The various rows and seats among 
 
 The host of occupants that came 
 
 Attracted by great Syntax' name. 
 
 The pit and galleries behind, 
 
 The spacious boxes 4oo were lined, 
 
 While those excluded, overflowed 
 
 The rival house, or homeward strode 
 
 Their sad vexation to assuage 
 
 By social chat or lively page. 
 
 The tragic carpet down was laid, 
 The lights in unison displayed 
 A soft effulgence, like the beams 
 Of Luna on the twilight streams. 
 At length in folds majestic rose 
 The sombre curtain to disclose 
 The chosen actor, who advanced 
 And expectation more enhanced 
 In verse respectful, terse, and smooth 
 The critic's lurking gall to soothe 
 Of ancient days the Prologue spoke, 
 Of Greece and Rome ere yet the yoke 
 Of tyranny subdued each race, 
 When lore was pride and pride was grace ; 
 When lofty Science envied reigned 
 And bright rewards and honour gained ; 
 
 ss 
 
314 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 And when the Muse her classic page 
 Unfolded on the instructive stage, 
 Fraught with such lore as once again 
 Our sage essayed in tragic strain. 
 On author's hopes and fears and pains 
 And patriotic waste of brains. 
 It also dwelt, till all the gods 
 Showed symptoms in their high abodes 
 That even the higher powers may grow 
 Wearied of prologues from below. 
 
 This prelude o'er— the play began, 
 And through the house in whispers ran 
 Expressions of the mind's delight 
 At entering on the novel sight. 
 The scene described a mighty plain 
 Strewed with the bodies of the slain, 
 Where Sparta's soldiers prostrate lay 
 The victims of a tyrant's sway 
 Who envious of the Grecian name 
 Had sought to crush her rising fame. 
 The swelling plot then strove to unfold 
 How Xerxes famed in page of old 
 Led on his myriads of slaves 
 To find dishonourable graves, 
 Where brave Leonidas the free 
 Guarded his dear Thermopylae, 
 And in the midst of slaughter found 
 The path of glory, while around 
 His brave companions strewed the ground 
 Showed too how Athens, seat of fame, 
 Of arts and sciences, became 
 The conquest in despiteful hour 
 Of Persia's rude and savage power — 
 
IN LONDON. 315 
 
 It gave the high wrought line and verse 
 
 Occasion often to rehearse 
 
 The glorious deeds and thirst of praise 
 
 That nurtured Greece's better days. 
 
 Connubial constancy, a theme 
 
 Though somewhat out of due esteem, 
 
 His care had planned to elevate 
 
 The sacred bond of married state. 
 
 The tale next showed in moving scene 
 
 The fate of Lacedemon's queen, 
 
 Tho' history seems to have forgot 
 
 The fair Lacedemonian's lot. 
 
 The patriot queen, forth rushing wild, 
 
 Beside the hecatomb thrice piled 
 
 Of Sparta's sons, sought and caressed 
 
 To her wild agonizing breast 
 
 Her husband's corse — her only care 
 
 Amidst her sad and wild despair. 
 
 With virtuous pride that life contemn'd 
 
 And death preferr'd than breathe condemned 
 
 The slave to Xerxes' lawless power, 
 
 And captive to his softer hour, 
 
 The dagger's point she fearless press'd, 
 
 And dying sought eternal rest. 
 
 Then came the dread catastrophe, 
 
 Of blazing fleets upon the sea, 
 
 Event terrific to relate 
 
 When Salamis beheld the fate 
 
 Of hostile squadrons stretching wide 
 
 And warring on the ocean's tide, 
 
 As when each dark embattled line 
 
 Met on the ensanguin'd Serpentine. 
 
 Themistocles the conflict plann'd, 
 
 And Xerxes from the neighbouring land 
 
316 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Consistent with historic lay, 
 Was shewn a witness of the fray — 
 The battle raging lingered long, 
 The Persian ships, a splendid throng, 
 Advancing press'd on every side, 
 And each succeeding loss supplied ; 
 At length the Grecian naval skill 
 Prepared to combat every ill. 
 Superior in manoeuvre threw 
 Confusion 'midst the hostile crew — 
 The Persians fled in sad dismay 
 Which gave conclusion to the play. 
 
 Such were the scenes that Syntax drew 
 To charm awhile the public view 
 And fire with glory's ardent flame 
 The youthful breast that pants for fame ; 
 Nor had his muse forgot the chorus 
 The Grecian sisters bring before us, 
 The Strophe, Antf-Strophe, Ode, 
 Epode, and lengthened Palinode, 
 To form a garland for his muse, 
 Nor deemed he could be too diffuse : 
 Ah ! fatal error, that like hope 
 Runs madly out a length of rope, 
 And thinks to gain the point by sail 
 That drives and scuds before the gale. 
 But wrecks the hapless author's fame 
 And in oblivion sinks his name. 
 The rest was formed for that delight 
 Which captivates the youthful sight, 
 Processions gorgeously arrayed 
 That glittering banners far displayed 
 
IN LONDON. 317 
 
 While elephants arranged among 
 The martial group and splendid throng, 
 Slow moving 'neath the castle's weight 
 Or costly canopy of state, 
 Conveyed a picture all might see 
 Of Eastern pomp and pageantry, 
 Such as our play-wrights now suppose 
 Must lead the public by the nose 
 By the seduction of their eyes 
 Into most gross monstrosities : 
 It seemed as though an angry flood 
 Whose heaving billows spouted blood, 
 Had occupied the Drama's place 
 And swallowed every softer grace. 
 Th' attentive audience, patient saw 
 The want of all dramatic law 
 In Doctor's piece, while with surprize 
 He scarce could credit his own eyes 
 And list'ning ears, that thus his muse 
 So rich in thought, sublime, diffuse ; 
 So ably versed in classic lore 
 Should not excite th' applausive roar ; 
 Yet still he thought the Poet's bay 
 Would grace the climax of his play 
 And compensate the cold delay. 
 Deceitful flattery ! short thy reign, 
 At once our blessing and our bane, 
 As Syntax found, for e'er his lay 
 Its fair conclusion could display 
 Alarming indications ran 
 From side to side, from front to van, 
 A gradual shower of hisses rose 
 That filled his mind with anxious woes, 
 
318 DOCTOR SYNTAX 
 
 Succeeding next, a deaf ning cry 
 
 Adverse to every sympathy 
 
 Resounded on our poet's ear 
 
 And added strength to every fear, 
 
 Louder and louder yet the yell 
 
 Discordant spoke the purpose fell, 
 
 In accents none could misapply, 
 
 And just description may defy ; 
 
 In wild distraction Syntax gazed, 
 
 Confounded — petrified — amazed. 
 
 'Twas clear, unless some check was plann'd, 
 
 Complete damnation was at hand, 
 
 When lo ! the manager appear'd, 
 
 And hinting what he more than feared, 
 
 Suggested Syntax would essay 
 
 To crave a hearing for his play. 
 
 Obedient to the wish, our sage 
 
 Rush'd from the wings upon the stage. 
 
 Let Prospero his vigils keep, 
 
 Call spirits from " the vasty deep," 
 
 Invoke obedience to his fate, 
 
 And storms and tempests regulate — 
 
 His power could scarcely more disclose 
 
 Than that which now on Syntax rose ; 
 
 His presence instantly subdued 
 
 The noise and tumult, while he sued 
 
 A breathless silence through the place 
 
 Gave token of returning grace, 
 
 At least our Syntax so divined 
 
 Who by himself adjudged mankind. 
 
 His supplication was not long, 
 
 'Twas well received, but soon among 
 
 The vast assemblage murmurs rose, 
 
 The pannels next re-echoed blows, 
 
IN LONDON. 319 
 
 The lights were Ihreaten'd, and the roar 
 
 Exceeded that which reigned before. 
 
 Our Doctor now with rage and pain 
 
 On finding " chaos come again," 
 
 Retired like Fabius from the field, 
 
 Reviling the bad taste that spoiled 
 
 His play ; and went where lovely Dolly, 
 
 Most ruefully, most melancholy, 
 
 Sat sweating all the while, as she 
 
 Had wrote the dreadful tragedy ; 
 
 To Dolly seemed our Doctor's look 
 
 The title of a tragic book, 
 
 While Dolly's tongue for once was lost 
 
 Amid the noise of clamorous host. 
 
 With tenderest care, like fallen Adam, 
 
 Good Syntax took the arm of madam, 
 
 And from the scene of his lost play 
 
 They took their solitary way, 
 
 Our Eve declaring in her sorrow 
 
 That she'd set off from town to-morrow, 
 
 And seek for happiness again 
 
 In the calm shades of Sommerden. 
 
 THE END. 
 
 W. Shackell, Printer, Jobuson's-court, Fleet-street, London,