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John Trott was desired by two witty peers To tell them the reason why asses had ears. "An 't please you," quoth John, "I'm not given to letters; Nor dare I pretend to know more than my betters: Howe'er, from this time I shall ne'er see your graces, As I hope to be saved! without thinking on asses."

John Trott was desired by two witty peers To tell them the reason why asses had ears. "An 't please you," quoth John, "I'm not given to letters; Nor dare I pretend to know more than my betters: Howe'er, from this time I shall ne'er see your graces, As I hope to be saved! without thinking on asses."
Goldsmith (identity unresolved)

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Author or tradition
Goldsmith (identity unresolved)
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Recorded source
Hoyt’s New Cyclopedia of Practical Quotations (1922) (1922 AD)

Printed page 45 · quotation 11 · Goldsmith · The Clown's Reply.

A collection's publication date can be later than the words it records.