Behold a wonder! They, who in their place
Were pompous in their port as any peer,
Now fight and jostle for a standing-room;
Their self-importance breathless and collapsed
As Æsop’s fabled frog. But far above,
And at their own convenience, like their wont,
The noble lords—dukes, earls, and smaller fry—
In otium cum dignitate sat,
Quaint demi-gods, in crimson robes and hats
Shiny and tall. After short silence then,