’Tis almost pity with that shape and face—
But is a fashion, and brings no disgrace;
Women of old wrote verse, or for the stage 120}
Brought forth their works! they now are reasoners sage, }
And with severe pursuits dare grapple and engage. }
If such her mind, I shall in vain oppose;
If not, her labours of themselves will close.”
Ellen, ’twas found, had skill without pretence,
And silenced envy by her meek good sense;
That Ellen learnt, her various knowledge proved;