The History of Johnny Quæ Genus, the Little Foundling of the Late Doctor Syntax

"The History of Johnny Quæ Genus, the Little Foundling of the Late Doctor Syntax" by William Combe is a poetry collection. It reveals great Britain's social life and customs in the 19th century. The favor which has been bestowed on the different Tours of Doctor Syntax has encouraged the writer of them to give a History of the Foundling. Excerpt: «OHNNY QUÆ GENUS! what a name To offer to the voice of Fame! (Though she 'tis hop'd may condescend To act as Little Johnny's friend) This may be said, when first the eye Does, by a careless glance, descry The striking range of marshall'd words Which a gay Title-Page affords. But what's a name, as Shakespeare says, It neither gives nor lessens praise; Adds no fresh odour to the rose, Nor any other flower that blows: Whether with rare or common name The fragrance will be just the same.»