Classic Poem

Upon a certain conscientious Undertaker, who, in order to promote his own Business, sent an anonymous Letter to a Gentleman who had employ'd one of the same Trade, insinuating the Impositions that Gentleman must expect from an honest Man ; at the same Time modestly pointing out ( by an under-rated Catalogue inclos'd in his Letter ) his own pretended Mode of Charge upon such Occasions .

I.

Who but must praise such honest Truth ,
Such Purity of Heart ;
You take the noblest Means to raise
Your Credit — and your Art.

II.

Detract against your Brother Trade,
To Wealth's the surest Road;
Let others plod in beaten Track ,
You've found a readier Mode .

III.

Go on, and prosper — (if you can)
Such dirty Acts bespeak
The foulest Aim, and well may raise
The Colour in your Cheek.

IV.

For Shame! adopt a single Grain
Of Charity, at least;
Or you'll be deem'd a Glutton Elf,
At your own snarling Feast.

V.

Take heed — apply this wholesome Hint:
Reform — indeed you'd best;
Your Name is known — I'll hang you up,
A Terror to the rest!

VI.

You're young in Trade , — this mod'rate Lash
At present shall suffice;
Provoke no more satyric Truth —
" Be honest " — if you're wise.