26 DECEMBER 1891, Page 15

EPIGRAMS.

[TO THR EDITOR OF THY "SPECTATOR."]

SIR,—Some may think that the writer of the interesting article on this subject in the Spectator of December 19th, should have mentioned the following clever definition. As he knows so much, possibly the writer of the article will be able to name the author. I think it was Pope :— " An epigram should be of right, Short, simple, pointed, keen, and bright ; A lively little thing.

Like wasp with taper body bound By lines, not many, neat, and round, All ending in a sting."

I must admit the definition will not suit Goldsmith's more beautiful use of the language.—I am, Sir, &c., A. B. B.-J.