And though sometimes but a half welcome guest,
He took his dish and spoon to every feast.[6]
Priestcraft and leechcraft were combined in him,
Two trades occult upon which knaves have thriven,
Almost since man from Paradise was driven;
Padding with pompous phrases worn and old
Their scanty esoteric science dim,
And gravely selling, at their weight in gold,
Placebos colored to their patients’ whim.
Man’s noblest mission here too oft is made,