All his neatness of style seems to desert him when he tries this tone, and nothing is left but a brutal explosion of contemptuous hatred.

Dennis is described in his garret, pouring forth insane ravings prompted by his disgust at the success of _Cato_; but not a word is said in reply to Dennis' criticisms.

It was plain enough that the author, whoever he might be, was more anxious to satisfy a grudge against Dennis than to defend Dennis's victim.

It is not much of a compliment to Addison to say that he had enough good feeling to scorn such a mode of retaliation, and perspicuity enough to see that it would be little to his credit.
Accordingly, in his majestic way, he caused Steele to write a note to Lintot (August 4, 1713), disavowing all complicity, and saying that if even he noticed Mr.Dennis's criticisms, it should be in such a way as to give Mr.Dennis no cause of complaint.

He added that he had refused to see the pamphlet when it was offered for his inspection, and had expressed his disapproval of such a mode of attack.