THE PUNCHEON'S EULOGY

“Here lies a worthy corpse ( Sangrado said )

“Its debt to Commerce now, no doubt, is paid.—

“Well —‘ twas a vile disease that kill'd it, sure,

“A quick consumption, that no art could cure!

“Thus shall we all, when life's vain dream is out,

“Be lodg'd in corners dark, or kick'd about!

“Time is the tapster of our race below,

“That turns the key, and bids the juices flow:

“Quitting my books, henceforth be mine the task

“To moralize upon this empty cask —

“Thank heaven we've had the taste — so far‘ twas well;

“And still, thro’ mercy, may enjoy the smell!”