Thus did the gentle Hind her fable end, 1290
Nor would the Panther blame it, nor commend;
But, with affected yawnings at the close,
Seem'd to require her natural repose:
For now the streaky light began to peep;
And setting stars admonish'd both to sleep.
The dame withdrew, and, wishing to her guest
The peace of heaven, betook herself to rest.
Ten thousand angels on her slumbers wait,
With glorious visions of her future state.
* * * * *
FOOTNOTES:
[Footnote 118: 'Mother Hubbard:' Mother Hubbard's tale, written by
Spenser.]
[Footnote 119: 'Lion's peace:' liberty of conscience, and toleration of all religions.]
[Footnote 120: 'Exiled heir:' the Duke of York, while opposed by the favourers and abettors of the Bill of Exclusion, was obliged to retire from London.]
[Footnote 121: 'French proselytes:' the French refugees that came into
England after the revocation of the edict of Nantes.]
[Footnote 122: 'Hudibras:' Butler.]
[Footnote 123: 'Atheist names:' alluding here and afterwards to
Stillingfleet's attacks on Dryden.]
[Footnote 124: 'Imprimatur:' the Bishop of London and his chaplains had formerly the examination of all books, and none could be printed without their imprimatur, or licence.]