The Empress received them with affable grace,
In an Aviary built at her favourite Place;
Though, ’twas notic’d, she coldly accosted the Gull,
Who had guarded some sheep from her Majesty’s pull.
But here—as incog. was the word—you may ask,
How the Queen knew the Gull, notwithstanding his mask?
Why, an Eagle looks sharper than I, or than you, Sir,
And, without any spectacles, knows who is who, Sir.
Each Masquer, in order presented, fell flat.
And the Cardinal lifted his claw to his hat.