An author ought to consider himself, not as a gentleman who gives a private or eleemosynary treat, but rather as one who keeps a public ordinary, at which all persons are welcome for their money.

Censor of Great Britain" until November of the same year. The particular play that triggered the Licensing Act was The Golden Rump but Fielding's satires had set the tone. Though a minor item in Fielding's total oeuvre the subject is consistent with his ongoing preoccupation with fraud sham and masks.

Henry Fielding (22 April 1707 – 8 October 1754) was an English novelist and dramatist known for his rich earthy humour and satirical prowess and as the author of the novel Tom Jones. His younger sister Sarah also became a successful writer.