And, as thy nature urges—weep or smile.

Sigh to behold the Eagle's lofty rage

Reduced to nibble at his narrow cage;

Smile to survey the queller of the nations

Now daily squabbling o'er disputed rations;[dx][262]

Weep to perceive him mourning, as he dines,

O'er curtailed dishes and o'er stinted wines;60

O'er petty quarrels upon petty things.

Is this the Man who scourged or feasted kings?

Behold the scales in which his fortune hangs,