MY GOODNESS, MY GUINEAS I SIR, — Authors of Sir Compton Mackenzie's
status may tremble for their quiddative shilling but I rather think that the pay-off where the rank and file are concerned is likely to be much the same as that concluded below, which was published in Punch in September, 1951:
Guineas are gracious gold, presented with a bow, Remote from common dross; Implying dignity in gain or loss, Sketching a slight suggestion of the • buccaneer somehow
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Linked-up with low companions and a high white brow.
Outgoing guineas hallmark Non- Utility—
Pictures, old furniture, mink coats and Mings, Paris hats, tiaras, pearls, the Sport of Kings, Pedigree pets, piano lessons and Gentility. Incoming guineas gild Concertos ren- dered, Plans, Briefs, Expert Advice _and Rights. surrendered; Hot up the bid for things no gentleman would sell at all But for the urgent need of plumbing at the Hall.
Pounds are Plonked Down as Pay, Guineas Reward as Fees;
Such fine distinctions Poets waive, with ease.
—Yours faithfully,
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