South Lambeth, Dec. 21, 1818.
In Mr. Nichols’s Collection of Poems there are some pleasant verses, which seem to have proceeded from his own pen:—
To H——y M——n, Esq.
On his refusing a Christmas Dinner with a Friend, on pretence of gallanting some Ladies to Leicester.
When you talk about Leicester
I hope you’re a jester.
Why desert an old friend,
For no purpose or end?
But to play the gallant,
With belles who will flaunt,
And who, cruel as vain,
Will rejoice in your pain!
No—Come to our pudding
We’ll put all things good in
Give you beef, the sirloin,
If with us you will dine;
Perhaps too a capon,
With greens and with bacon:
Give you port and good sherry,
To make your heart merry,
Then sit down to a pool,
’Stead of playing the fool;
Or a rubber at whist,
But for this as you list.
Next, give muffins and tea,
As you sometimes give me.
As for supper, you know,
A potato, or so;
Or a bit of cold ham,
As at night we ne’er cram;
Or a tart, if you please,
With a slice of mild cheese.
Then we’ll sing—sing, did I say?
Yes: “The Vicar of Bray;”[547]
And, what I know you don’t hate
“My fond shepherds of late:”[548]
Nor think me a joker,
If I add “Ally Croaker.”[549]
In fine, we’ll sing and delight ye,
Till you say, “Friends, good night t’ ye.”
1780.
N. J.
Whether these verses were written by Mr. Nichols or not, the mention of his name occasions it to be observed, that about a week before the present date he died, at the age of eighty-five.
The editor of this humble work, who has derived much assistance in its progress from the “Gentleman’s Magazine,” which Mr. Nichols edited for nearly half a century, would omit to do rightly if he were not thus to acknowledge the obligation. Nor can he recollect without feelings of respectful gratitude, that his name appeared a few years ago in the “Domestic Occurrences” of the “Gentleman’s Magazine” with fidelity to its readers, unaccompanied by remarks which some of its admirers might, perhaps, at that time have admired. Its critical pages subsequently distinguished the volume on “Ancient Mysteries” by approval; and since then they have been pleased to favour, and even praise, the publication of which this is the last sheet. There was no personal intimacy to incline such good-will, and therefore it may be fairly inferred to have resulted from pure feelings and principles of equity. Mr. Nichols’s rank as a literary antiquary is manifested by many able and elaborate works. As he declined in life, his active duties gradually and naturally devolved on his successor: may that gentleman live as long in health and wealth, and be remembered with as high honour, as his revered father.