A man of prejudice, all sightless, eyeless, so!

A painted fish cares not for water, or for land.

Soap to a blackamoor is one, or tar, in hand.

Shouldst thou depict a portrait overwhelmed with grief,

Would grief or joy be felt, though shown in strong relief?525

The picture would look sorrowful;—no sorrow feel;

Or smiling happiness;—without gay laughter’s peal.

The joy or grief depicted by a pencil’s art,

Is naught but simulated;—knows nor thrill, nor smart.

Lugubrious countenances are for our behoof;