I am, therefore, inclined to think these "improvisatri" are mere reciters
of the great Italian poets. It is probable that the persons who give us
these extraordinary accounts of Italian genius, are unacquainted with the
literature of that country, and of course cannot detect the imposition.


* * * * *

In Goldsmith's poem, entitled "Retaliation," a line occurs, which is to me
unintelligible, at least a part of it. That poet concludes his ironical
eulogium on Edmund Burke, thus:--

"In short 'twas his fate, unemployed, or in place, sir,
_To eat mutton cold_, and cut blocks with a razor."

The cutting blocks with a razor, I think is obvious enough, but, what is
meant by eating mutton cold? I should be obliged by a solution. HEN. B.



* * * * *

I'LL COME TO YOUR BALL.

_(For the Mirror.)_


I'll come to your Ball--dearest Emma,
(I had nearly forgotten to say)
Provided no awkward dilemma