Page:Poetical Works of John Oldham.djvu/189

Rh Besides, for the same feet, we've often known One mount the cart, another mount the throne; And foulest deeds, attended with success, No longer are reputed wickedness, Disguised with virtue's livery and dress.' With these weak arguments they fortify, And harden up themselves in villany; The rascal now dares call you to account, And in what court you please, join issue on't; Next term he'll bring the action to be tried, And twenty witnesses to swear on 's side; And if that justice to his cause be found, Expects a verdict of five hundred pound. Thus he, who boldly dares the guilt out-face, For innocent shall with the rabble pass; While you, with impudence and sham run down, Are only thought the knave by all the town. Meantime, poor you at heaven exclaim, and rail, Louder than Jeffreys at the bar does bawl: 'Is there a power above? and does he hear? And can he tamely thunderbolts forbear? To what vain end do we with prayers adore, And on our bended knees his aid implore? Where is his rule, if no respect be had, Of innocence, or guilt, of good, or bad? And who henceforth will any credit show To what his lying priests teach here below? If this be providence, for aught I see, Blessed Saint Vaninus! I shall follow thee:

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