A snapper up of unconsidered trifles.
SHAKSPEARE.
* * * * *
Of Hogarth's first attempt at satire, the following story is related by
Nichols, who had it from one of Hogarth's fellow workmen. "One summer
Sunday, during his apprenticeship, he went with three companions to
Highgate, and the weather being warm and the way dusty, they went into a
public house, and called for ale. There happened to be other customers
in the house, who to free drinking added fierce talking, and a quarrel
ensued. One of them on receiving a blow with the bottom of a quart pot,
looked so ludicrously rueful, that Hogarth snatched out a pencil and
sketched him as he stood. It was very like and very laughable, and
contributed to the restoration of order and good humour."
* * * * *