Punch, February 26, 1853.
Paragraphs have recently appeared in the London newspapers announcing that a public company has been formed to provide the metropolis with improved cabs. It is to be hoped the news is true, for whilst similar announcements have been often made before, the London four-wheeled cab remains, what it was described by Punch in 1853, the worst public vehicle to be found in any large European city.
National Song.
(By an Ex-Patriot, compelled by circumstances over which he has no control, to absent himself from his native country, and trying to persuade himself that he likes it.)
The Duns of merry England! how terrible their air,
With brows like midnight low’ring, and eyes with fiendish glare;
And never-ceasing questions, when you really mean to pay
The Duns of merry England, what nuisances are they!
The Meats of merry England! how limited their range,