But with his trade they must not interfere.
’Twas certain now that John had lost the dread
And pious thoughts that once such terrors bred;
His habits varied, and he more inclined
To the vain world, which he had half resign’d;
He had moreover in his brethren seen,
Or he imagined, craft, conceit, and spleen:
“They are but men,” said John, “and shall I then
Fear man’s control, or stand in awe of men?
’Tis their advice (their Convert’s rule and law),