Page:Trivia (John Gay) to which is added London (Samuel Johnson) (1809).djvu/28

18 But when the bully, with assuming pace, Cocks his broad hat, edg'd round with tarnish'd lace, Yield not the way; defy his strutting pride, And thrust him to the muddy kennel's side; He never turns again, nor dares oppose, But mutters coward curses as he goes. If drawn by business to a street unknown Let the sworn porter point thee through the town. Be sure observe the signs; for signs remain Like faithful landmarks to the walking train. Seek not from 'prentices to learn the way; Those fabling boys will turn thy steps astray: Ask the grave tradesman to direct thee right; He ne'er deceives—-but when he profits by't.
 * Where fam'd St. Giles's ancient limits spread,

An inrail'd column rears its lofty head; Here to sev'n streets sev'n dials count the day, And from each other catch the circling ray: Here oft the peasant, with enquiring face, Bewilder'd, trudges on from place to place; He dwells on ev'ry sign with stupid gaze, Enters the narrow alley's doubtful maze;