Selected for this purpose. Thus at length
The rich, in imitation of these rites,
Adopted the same custom, chose them out
From th' herd of parasites, such as would suit
Their purpose best, to nourish and protect.
Unluckily, they did not fix upon
The best and most respectable, but on
Such wretches as would grossly flatter them,
Ready to say or swear to anything;
And should their patrons puff their fetid breath,