‘All in his front, he scorn’d to turn his back.

‘This sad event will be a grievous blow, Sir,

‘To Johnny Newcome, Alderman and Grocer.’[1]

Young John was well aware to what extent

To purchase fame a golden guinea went;

At all the Shops where characters were sold,

He could be made a Hero for his gold;

A valiant Hero then at any rate,

Our John resolv’d to be or soon, or late.

An Order now arriv’d at the Depôt,