Seduce the Histrio; e'en the thrall of Art
Bows to the modern Baal of Pot and Paste,
That deadly foe of Modesty and Taste.
The Poet poses publicly, the Scribe
Knows how to vaunt, to logroll, and to bribe.
But there be those share not the general taint;
The pestle-wielding Sage, the silk-gowned Saint.
Redeem our fallen race from the dark shade
That would confuse Professions with mere Trade.
No, briefs and bills of costs may loom too big,