XXVI.

"Petticoat Influence" is a great reproach, Which even those who obey would fain be thought To fly from, as from hungry pikes a roach; But since beneath it upon earth we are brought, By various joltings of Life's hackney coach, I for one venerate a petticoat-- A garment of a mystical sublimity, No matter whether russet, silk, or dimity.[mv]