Note 719 — THE ARGUMENT.
Reading edition
The last line is imitated from Addison's Campaign.
Marlb'rough's exploits appear divinely bright— Raised of themselves their genuine charms they boast, And those who paint them truest, praise them most.
This Pope had in his thoughts; but not knowing how to use what was not his own, he spoiled the thought when he had borrowed it. Martial exploits may be painted; perhaps woes may be painted; but they are surely not painted by being well sung: it is not easy to paint in song, or to sing in colours.—Johnson.