* The truth however is,
Shadwell, at one time, held divided reputation with this great
poet. Every age produces its fashionable dunces, who, by
following the transient topic, or humour, of the day, supply
talkative ignorance with materials for conversation.
[footnote] *'Aquila non capit muscas' (Apostolius).
ON POETRY. A RHAPSODY.
Here follows one of the best versified poems in our language,
and the most masterly production of its author. The severity
with which Walpole is here treated, was in consequence of that
minister having refused to provide for Swift in England, when
applied to for that purpose in the year 1725 (if I remember
right). The severity of a poet, however, gave Walpole very
little uneasiness. A man whose schemes, like this minister's,
seldom extended beyond the exigency of the year, but little
regarded the contempt of posterity.
OF THE USE OF RICHES.
This poem, as Mr. Pope tells us himself, cost much attention and
labour; and, from the easiness that appears in it, one would be
apt to think as much.
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