Which you, abroad, with such success obey'd!
Bear this from one, who holds your friendship dear;
What most we wish, with ease we fancy near.
JOHN GAY.
(1685-1732.)
[XXXIV.] THE QUIDNUNCKIS.
The following piece was originally claimed for Swift in the edition of his works published in 1749. But it was undoubtedly written by Gay, being only sent to Swift for perusal. This explains the fact of its being found amongst the papers of the latter. The poem is suggested by the death of the Duke Regent of France.
How vain are mortal man's endeavours?
(Said, at dame Elleot's,[182] master Travers)