THE BATTLE OF THE ANNUALS.
THE framework of this little jeu desprit is an imitation of the old way of giving life to satirical criticism, by personifying the subjects of it, and introducing them as contending with each other for a prize. The author of the present skit is a pupil of HOOD'S; and, amidst a number of indifferent puns, now and then achieves a good one : but in the conduct of his story, he seems to have got frightened at his attempt, and leaves the question of merit as he found it. If criticism were needed in so slender an affair, it might be observed that the respective characters of the different Annuals are not distinguished with much discrimination; and that the verses are frequently prosaic, and the points deficient in felicity and neatness. Here is perhaps one of the best bits ; from which the reader may gather a tolerable notion of the execution.
The lordly Keepsake lauds himself, And is "all vain enough ;" But 'neath his silken robe there peeps A garb of-common stuff!
In vain it boasts its gaudy hues, By men of rank drawn out ; That all his contributions are
Rank nonsense, none can doubt.
But lo ! he marches to the ground Prepared for the assault ;
Goose-quills are bristling in the air; The Imes, as usual-halt !
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