University of Virginia Library

[Of all the features humanly appearing]

Of all the features humanly appearing,
That divers ways the character bespeak,
Not one I know in any way is nearing
The quality of good, substantial cheek.
Men may have claims to place; but vain they seek
Advancement with this rival in the way:
Back to retiracy they baffled sneak,
While cheek triumphantly achieves the day.
How oft we see it in victorious sway,
In church or state, society or mart!
Whatever intellect or worth may say,
Cheek sweeps the board; the others set apart.
“Win” is the word the winds in waiting shriek,
When wealth and brains in vain compete with cheek.