Citation |
PC.772.111
17-24 Oct 1772:1641 (302)
From a London paper. Bath, July 12, 1772. The following
elegant verses have been lately handed about here, as the
production of Mr. Soame Jenyns's elegant pen.
ON THE EARL OF CHESTERFIELD BEING AT BATH.
In times by selfishness and faction sour'd,
When dull importance has all wit devour'd;
When rank, as if t'insult alone design'd,
Exacts a proud seclusion* from mankind;
And greatness, from all social commerce fled,
Esteems it a dignity to be ill-bred.
See Chesterfield alone resists the tide,
Above all party, and above all pride!
Vouchsafes each night these brilliant scenes to grace,
Augments, and shares the pleasures of the place;
Admires the fair, enjoys the sprightly ball,
Deigns to be pleas'd, and therefore pleases all.
Hence, though unequal, now the task to hit,
Learn what was once politeness, ease, and wit.
* Alluding to the supercilious airs of some of our people
of Quality, who affect to avoid frequenting the public
rooms.
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