A symmetrical apple-tree, on the branches of which sit or stand ministers of state gathering the apples. They are poorly characterized. Against the trunk stands a ladder, inscribed "The Ladder by which the noble Lads ascend." Each rung has an inscription: "Conceit", "Lying", "Swearing", "Pretention", "Assurance", "Harangue", "Flattery", "Bribery", "Interest", "Money", "Ambition", "Title". The topmost and centre figure is that of the Duke of Portland, standing; he says, "I hope there will be no Searching pockets when we come down". He wears (inaccurately) a Garter ribbon, cf. BMSat 6248. Below him sit Fox (left) and North (right). Fox says, "They may call us what they please so they call us not -To Account". North says, "I will serve my self, my friends, and my Country". Below these are Keppel (left) and an unidentified minister (right), perhaps Lord John Cavendish, Chancellor of the Exchequer. Keppel says, "This is the best Yard-arm that I ever crost". The other says, "I shall follow the old Precident - fill my Coffers". Of the two lowest apple-gatherers, one (left) has a vague resemblance to Burke; he says, "Apple stealing began at old Adam, and will only die with old Time". The other (right) says, "A few will never be missed".
<p><br>In front of the tree is a circular railing within which stand two grenadiers holding bayoneted muskets, as in the sentry-boxes outside the Treasury.
<br>Beneath the design is etched:
<br><br>"Now, all you that stare
<br>And grumble, and swear, 
<br>And wish that all Thieves had their whippings;
<br>Come, don't be so mad,
<br>Because a poor Lad, 
<br>Will pocket a few Golden Pippins.
<br><br>No longer I blame, 
<br>Or wish to reclaim 
<br>The Statesman, because that he grapples; 
<br>For coul'd I ascend, 
<br>My self, and my Friend, 
<br>I'd serve, with the sweet, golden Apples". 24 July 1783
</p>
<br>Etching
1783<div style="display: none;">date QS:P571,+1783-00-00T00:00:00Z/9</div>
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