LETTER V. ELECTIONS. Say then, which class to greater follies stoop, Be brave, for your leader is brave, and vows reformation; there shall be in England seven half penny loaves sold for a penny; and the three-hooped pot shall havą ten hoops. I will make it felony to drink small-beer: all shall eat and drink on my score, and I will apparel them all in one livery, that they may agree like brothers; and they shall all worship me as their lord. "Shakspeare's Henry VI. I THE ELECTION. The evils of the contest, and how in part to be avoided.—The miseries endured by a friend of the candidate.-The various liberties taken with him, who has no personal interest in the success.The unreasonable expectations of voters.-The censures of the opposing party. The vices as well as follies shown in such time of contest.-Plans and cunning of electors.-Evils which remain after the decision, opposed in vain by the efforts of the friendly: and of the successful; among whom is the mayor.-Story of his advancement till he was raised to the government of the borough.-These evils not to be placed in balance with the liberty of the people, but are yet subjects of just complaint.. LETTER V. THE ELECTION YES, our election's past, and we've been free, True! you might then your party's sign produce, And so escape with only half th' abuse; With half the danger as you walk'd along, With rage and threat'ning but from half the throng: Friends of all kinds; the civil and the rude, These beg or take a liberty to come, (Friends should be free,) and make your house their home: They know that warmly you their cause espouse, So humbly begs (and states at large the case), Stifling his shame by drink, a wretch will come, To show what man can bear to serve a friend. Then comes there one, and tells in friendly way To Gretna Green, or more vexatious slip? Has your wife's brother, or your uncle's son Vain of their power, and of their value sure, We might be then from serious griefs exempt, |