DEATH and the DOCTOR

As Doctor ** musing sat, Death saw, and came without delay: Enters the room, begins the chat With, "Doctor, why so thoughtful pray?"

The Doctor started from his place, But soon they more familiar grew: And then he told his piteous case, How trade was low, and friends were few.

" Away with fear," the phantom said, As soon as he had heard his tale: " Take my advice, and mend your trade; " We both are losers if you fail.

" Go write, your wit in satire show, " No matter, whether smart or true; " Call ** names, the greatest foe " To dullness, folly, pride, and you.

" Then copies spread, there lies the trick, " Among your friends be sure you send 'em; " For all who read will soon grow sick, " And when you're call'd upon, attend 'em.

" Thus trade increasing by degrees, " Doctor, we both shall have our ends: " For you are sure to have your fees, " And I am sure to have your friends."