It was the language of the cabinet, of the university, of the church.

It was employed by all who aspired to distinction in the higher walks of poetry.

In compassion to the ignorance of his mistress, a cavalier might now and then proclaim his passion in Tuscan or Provenc'al rhymes.

The vulgar might occasionally be edified by a pious allegory in the popular jargon.

But no writer had conceived it possible that the dialect of peasants and market-women should possess sufficient energy and precision for a majestic and durable work.