Yet imaginative strokes are not wanting to soften the repulsive theme, and to bring the sordid and the foul within the sphere of art.

For an example.

"Time has passed," says Rameau, "and that is always so much gained." "_I._--So much lost, you mean.
"_He._--No, no; gained.

People grow rich every moment; a day less to live, or a crown piece to the good, 'tis all one.

When the last moment comes, one is as rich as another.