THE GEORGES As the statues of these beloved Monarchs are to be put up in the Parliament palace-we have been favoured by a young lady (connected with the Court) with copies of the inscriptions which are to be engraven under the images of those Stars of Brunswick. GEORGE I-STAR OF BRUNSWICK He preferred Hanover to England, And gave an enlightened patronage to bad oysters. Consistent in his Preference for every kind of Corruption. GEORGE II In most things I did as my father had done, My spending was small and my avarice much, I butchered the Scotch, and I bearded the French: I wasn't much missed when I died in a fit. Here set up my statue, and make it complete- GEORGE III Give me a royal niche-it is my due, Was constant to plain food and a plain wife. Ireland I risked, and lost America ; Nor ever could the ruthless Frenchman forge GEORGIUS ULTIMUS He left an example for age and for youth He never acted well by Man or Woman, Christened him the First Gentleman in Europe'. Friends, respect the King whose Statue is here, And the generous Aristocracy who admired him. THE FOUR GEORGES SKETCHES OF MANNERS, MORALS, COURT AND TOWN LIFE [Cornhill Magazine, 1860; first edition in book form, 1861] |