Note 35 — Act II.
Reading edition
This poem was first published in the edition of 1786 under the title, "The English Quixote of 1778; or, Modern Idolatry." In the 1809 edition Freneau added the following:
'Tis so well known 'tis hardly worth relating That men have worshipped gods, though of their own creating: Art's handy work they thought they might adore, And bowed to gods that were but logs before. Idols, of old, were made of clay or wood, And, in themselves, did neither harm nor good, Acted as though they knew the good old rule, "Friend, hold thy peace, and you'll be thought no fool." Britons! their case is yours—and linked in fate, You, like your Indian allies—good and great— Bow to some frowning block yourselves did rear, And worship wooden monarchs—out of fear.