Professor Porson

– One of the most pointed and severe satires that, perhaps, was ever uttered, was made by Professor Porson, a short time before his death. Being in a mixed company, among which were many eminent literary characters, and particularly Mr S-----y, the poet, who had a very high opinion of his own talents, the conversation turned on some of his own productions, when, as usual, he began to extol their merits.

“I will tell you, sir,” said Mr. Porson, “What I think of your poetical works: they will be read when Shakespeare’s and Milton’s are forgotten (every eye was instantly turned upon the professor); but not till then!”

Mr COLERIDGE.

– Mr. Coleridge was a remarkably awkward horseman – So much so as generally to attract notice. On a certain occasion he was riding along a turnpike-road, in the county of Durham, when a wag approaching him, noticed his peculiarity, and, quite mistaking his man, thought the rider a fine subject for a little sport; when, as he drew near, he thus accosted Mr. C.: “I say. Young man, did you meet a sailor on the road?” “Yes,” replied Mr. C., who was never at a loss for a rejoinder, “I did; and he told me if I went a little further I would meet, a goose!” The assailant was struck dumb, while the traveller jogged on.