Author's note: 'In looking over an old work a few days since, I was struck with the applicability of the following stanzas to the late occupants of the Treasury Benches. They who were so lately the ins are now the outs, and they think it necessary to croak against Mr. Cowper's Ministry, and prophecy its speedy downfall - but their predictions are idle, and savour too much of envy, hatred, malice, and all uncharitableness. It is certain that, although the opposition may be numerically strong, the talent is on the ministerial side of the house, and the country will, ere long, be convinced of it.'
Author's note: 'Sydney, September 2nd, 1856.'