MR DRYDEN TRICKED HIS SUBSCRIBERS.
I wonder that any man, who could not but be conscious of his own unfitness for it, should go to amuse the learned world with such an undertaking! A man ought to value his reputation more than money; and not to hope that those who can read for themselves will be imposed upon, merely by a partially and unseasonably celebrated name.[474] Poetis quidlibei audendi shall be Mr Dryden's motto, though it should extend to picking of pockets.[475]
NAMES BESTOWED ON MR DRYDEN.
An Ape.—A crafty ape dressed up in a gaudy gown—whips put into an ape's paw, to play pranks with—none but apish and papish brats will heed him.[476]
An Ass.—A camel will take upon him no more burden than is sufficient for his strength, but there is another beast that crouches under all.[477]
A Frog.—Poet Squab endued with Poet Maro's spirit! an ugly croaking kind of vermin, which would swell to the bulk of an ox.[478]
A Coward.—A Clinias or a Damaetas, or a man of Mr Dryden's own courage.[479]
A Knave.—Mr Dryden has heard of Paul, the knave of Jesus Christ; and, if I mistake not, I've read somewhere of John Dryden, servant to his Majesty.[480]
A Fool.—Had he not been such a self-conceited fool.[481]—Some great poets are positive blockheads.[482]
A Thing.—So little a thing as Mr Dryden.[483]