A Fable

When beasts by words their meanings could declare, Some well-drest men and women did repair To gaze upon two monkeys at a fair:

And one who was the spokesman in the place Said, in their count'nance you might plainly trace The likeness of a wither'd old man's face.

His observation none impeach'd or blam'd, But every man and woman when 'twas nam'd Drew in the head, or slunk away asham'd.

One monkey, who had more pride than the other, His infinite chagrin could scarcely smother; But Pug the wiser said unto his brother:

"The slights and coolness of this human nation Should give a sensible ape no mort'fication; 'Tis thus they always serve a poor relation."