Part 52 (2/2)

For every one's both judge and jury here; Nay, and what's worse, an executioner.

All have a right and t.i.tle to some part, Each choosing that in which he has most art.

The dreadful men of learning all confound, Unless the fable's good, and moral sound.

The vizor-masks, that are in pit and gallery, Approve, or d.a.m.n, the repartee and raillery.

The lady critics, who are better read, Inquire if characters are nicely bred; If the soft things are penned and spoke with grace; They judge of action too, and time, and place; In which we do not doubt but they're discerning, For that's a kind of a.s.signation learning.

Beaus judge of dress; the witlings judge of songs; The cuckoldom, of ancient right, to cits belongs.

Thus poor poets the favour are denied Even to make exceptions, when they're tried.

'Tis hard that they must every one admit: Methinks I see some faces in the pit Which must of consequence be foes to wit.

You who can judge, to sentence may proceed; But though he cannot write, let him be freed At least from their contempt who cannot read.

<script>