When small-coal murmurs in the hoarser throat,

From smutty dangers guard thy threaten'd coat;

The dustman's cart offends thy clothes and eyes,

When through the street a cloud of ashes flies;

But, whether black or lighter dyes are worn,

The chandler's basket, on his shoulder borne,

With tallow spots thy coat; resign the way,

To shun the surly butcher's greasy tray.

If drawn by business to a street unknown,

Let the sworn porter point thee through the town;