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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


ODES I, 38. AD MINISTRAM by QUINTUS HORATIUS FLACCUS

First Line: DEAR LUCY, YOU KNOW WHAT MY WISH IS
Last Line: AND TIPPLE MY ALE IN THE SHADE.
Subject(s): FOOD & EATING; SIMPLICITY;

Dear Lucy, you know what my wish is, --
I hate all your Frenchified fuss:
Your silly @3entrees@1 and made dishes
Were never intended for us.
No footman in lace and in ruffles
Need dangle behind my arm-chair;
And never mind seeking for truffles,
Although they be ever so rare.

But a plain leg of mutton, my Lucy,
I pr'ythee get ready at three:
Have it smoking, and tender, and juicy,
And what better meat can there be?
And when it has feasted the master,
'Twill amply suffice for the maid;
Meanwhile I will smoke my canaster,
And tipple my ale in the shade.



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