EIGHTEENTH CENTURY. 129 



While quiet we sit, 



We conclude all things fit, 

 Acquiescing with hearty submission, 



For, though simple, we know 



That soft murmurs will grow 

 At the last, unto downright sedition. 



We care not who says, 



And intends it dispraise, 

 That an angler to a fool is next neighbour : 



Let him prate what care we ? 



We're as honest as he ; 

 And so let him take that for his labour." 



Walton and Cotton had many imitators ; among the 



number was Parker, who wrote poetry on the art of 



angling. His verses were published in 1670. They never 

 stood high in critical estimation. 



