Ballade Of Modest Confession

My reading is extremely deep and wide; And as our modern education goes— Unique I think, and skilfully applied To Art and Industry and Autres Choses Through many years of scholarly repose. But there is one thing where I disappoint My numerous admirers (and my foes). Painting on Vellum is my weakest point. I ride superbly. When I say I 'ride' The word's too feeble. I am one of those That dominate a horse. It is my pride To tame the fiercest with tremendous blows Of heel and knee. The while my handling shows Such lightness as a lady's. But Aroint Thee! Human frailty with thy secret woes! Painting on Vellum is my weakest point. Painting on Vellum: not on silk or hide Or ordinary Canvas: I suppose No painter of the present day has tried So many mediums with success, or knows As well as I do how the subject grows Beneath the hands of genius, that anoint With balm. But I have something to disclose— Painting on Vellum is my weakest point. Envoi Prince! do not let your Nose, your royal Nose, Your large imperial Nose get out of Joint. For though you cannot touch my golden Prose, Painting on Vellum is my weakest point.