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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


A LETTER FROM DR. SHERIDAN TO DR. SWIFT by THOMAS SHERIDAN (1687-1738)

First Line: I'D HAVE YOU TO KNOW, AS SURE AS YOU'RE DEAN
Last Line: TAKE CARE YOU DO NOT BID TOO MANY.
Subject(s): SWIFT, JONATHAN (1667-1745);

I'd have you to know, as sure as you're Dean,
On Thursday my cask of Obrien I'll drain;
If my wife be not willing, I say she's a quean;
And my right to the cellar, egad, I'll maintain
As bravely as any that fought at Dunblain:
Go tell her it over and over again.
I hope, as I ride to the town, it won't rain;
For, should it, I fear it will cool my hot brain,
Entirely extinguish my poetic vein,
And then I should be as stupid as Kain,
Who preached on three heads though he mentioned but twain.
Now Wardel's in haste and begins to complain;
Your most humble servant, dear Sir, I remain,
Get Helsham, Walmsley, Delany,
And some Grattans if there be any;
Take care you do not bid too many.



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