[Col. Topham endeavouring with his squirt to extinguish the genius of Holman] [graphic].

"Topham, in full regimentals, standing in profile to the left, directs a large syringe at a sun (left) rising above a hill, inscribed 'Genius of Holman'. Behind him, holding leading-strings attached to his epaulettes, are Mrs. Wells and John Henderson. Above Topham's head flies an owl with papers in its beak inscribed 'Prologue' (twice) and 'Epilogue'. He says, looking up: 'Yes much belov'd and all excelling Pair, What Modern Beau can do, I nobly dare, Against this Youthfull Phaeton will write, Censure, defame, do every thing but fight.' Mrs. Wells says: "Well done Noble Captn down with him a forward Boy indeed, to attempt the Character of our Friend H------n here, and contrary to your Superior Opinion". Henderson, clenching his fist, says, "Presumptious Youth, what! does the Stripling dare, in the same path to Fame, with me to walk - Damnation!" A soldier with a musket standing on the extreme right says, looking towards Topham, "A Soldier, by the bloody Arm of Mars, he looks far better fitted for to tend my lady's Lap Dog - or her Fan to bear"."--British Museum online catalogue