A FABLE br br When beasts by words their meanings could declare, br Some well-dressed men and women did repair br To gaze upon two monkeys at a fair: br br br And one who was the spokesman in the place br Said, in their countenance you might plainly trace br The likeness of a withered old man's face. br br br His observation none impeached or blamed, br But every man and woman when 'twas named br Drew in the head, or slunk away ashamed. br br br One monkey, who had more pride than the other, br His infinite chagrin could scarcely smother; br But Pug the wiser said unto his brother: br br br 'The slights and coolness of this human nation br Should give a sensible ape no mortification; br 'Tis thus they always serve a poor relation.