Do basely vex; still we are kings.
Hyenas are caged or far away;
The mice entrapped by night and day.
But Slanderer’s base and slimy word
Is fouler far than beast or bird.
Infectious doubt injects he first,
And defamation’s not his worst;
His victim says: “I’m stript of fame;
If felon then, I’ll play the game.”
Thus some decide; and who may tell