Nor scorn, ye rulers of the states’ finance,
The prompt expedients of these pilfering scenes,
Where thro’ the aid of rapine they enhance
The scanty budget of their ways and means.
Can stories sad, or supplicative grief,
Back to the owner bring his valued dross?
Can blunt rebuffs administer relief,
Or aidless pity compensate his loss?
Perhaps, amidst that motley group there stand
Some who once graced far other scenes of life;