“The public has no knowledge of true art;

The book of worth these days would not be read;

’Tis trash not truth that goes upon the mart.”

And then was published his belovéd work—

Some twenty-six editions it has had—

And he his own conclusion cannot shirk:

With such success as this it must be bad!

TO AN EGOTISTICAL BIOGRAPHER

I’ve read your story of your friend’s fine life,

But really, gentle sir, I fail to see,