In none of Dryden's works can be found passages more pathetic and magnificent, greater ductility and energy of language, or a more pleasing and various music.
The poem appeared with every advantage which royal patronage could give.
A superb edition was printed for Scotland at the Roman Catholic press established in Holyrood House.

But men were in no humour to be charmed by the transparent style and melodious numbers of the apostate.

The disgust excited by his venality, the alarm excited by the policy of which he was the eulogist, were not to be sung to sleep.

The just indignation of the public was inflamed by many who were smarting from his ridicule, and by many who were envious of his renown.

In spite of all the restraints under which the press lay, attacks on his life and writings appeared daily.