And so is Lepidus his printed dog[569]:

Why doth not Ponticus their fames envy?

Besides, this Muse of mine and the black feather

Grew both together fresh in estimation;10

And both, grown stale, were cast away together:

What fame is this that scarce lasts out a fashion?

Only this last in credit doth remain,

That from henceforth each bastard cast-forth rhyme,

Which doth but savour of a libel vein,

Shall call me father, and be thought my crime;