Medulla Poetarum Romanorum Or, the Most Beautiful and Instructive Passages of the Roman Poets. Being a Collection, (Disposed under proper Heads,) Of such Descriptions, Allusions, Comparisons, Characters, and Sentiments, as may best serve to shew the Religion, Learning, Politicks, Arts, Customs, Opinions, Manners, and Circumstances of the Antients. With Translations of the same in English Verse. By Mr. Henry Baker |
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Oeconomy.
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 | Medulla Poetarum Romanorum |  |
161
Oeconomy.
See Extravagance. Luxury.
If noble Atticus make plenteous Feasts,
And with luxurious Food indulge his Guests:
His Wealth and Quality support the Treat,
In him nor is it Luxury, but State.
But when poor Rutilus spends all he's worth,
In Hopes of setting one good Dinner forth,
'Tis downright Madness: for what greater Jests,
Than begging Gluttons, or than Beggar's Feasts?
And with luxurious Food indulge his Guests:
His Wealth and Quality support the Treat,
In him nor is it Luxury, but State.
But when poor Rutilus spends all he's worth,
In Hopes of setting one good Dinner forth,
'Tis downright Madness: for what greater Jests,
Than begging Gluttons, or than Beggar's Feasts?
Strange Ignorance! that the same Man, who knows
How far yond' Mount above this Mole-hill shows,
Should not perceive a Difference as great,
Between a little and a vast Estate.—
Not less the Praise to keep than to obtain:
How far yond' Mount above this Mole-hill shows,
Should not perceive a Difference as great,
Between a little and a vast Estate.—
'Tis Wisdom keeps, but Accident may gain.—
| Medulla Poetarum Romanorum | |