Plate XLIV — The Beggar
In the most deplorable situation, lame, and exposed almost naked to the injuries of the weather, he is set down before a rich man’s house, into which he has the mortification to see several enter, who look at him without ever thinking of relieving his distress. Death, not less cruel than capricious, whose aid alone he implores, and in whose power it is to make him happy, deaf to his prayers, allows him to groan under the load of evils which overwhelm him, whilst he delights to tear from this life those who think themselves happy, or are attached to it by the strongest ties.