University of Virginia Library

XX.

The unfortunate Peter lamenteth the Loss of an important Ode by Rats—He prayeth devoutly for the Rats.

Hiatus maxime deflendus!
I've lost an Ode of charming praise;
From like misfortune, Heav'n defend us!
The sweetest of my lyric lays!
Where many a youthful artist shone with fame,
Like his own pictures in a fine gilt frame.
Perdition catch the roguish rats!
Their trembling limbs shall fill the maws of cats,
Were I to be their sole adviser:
Vermin! like trunk-makers, kings, pastry-cooks,
Dealing in legions of delightful books,
Yet, with the learning, not a whit the wiser.
Thank G*d! the Ode unto Myself they spar'd:
And, lo! the labour of the lucky bard.