Souls of Poets dead and gone, What Elysium have ye known, Happy field, or mossy cavern, Fairer than the Mermaid Tavern? Have ye tippled drink more fine Than mine Host's Canary wine? Or are fruits of paradise Sweeter than those dainty pies Of Venison? O generous food Drest as though bold Robin Hood Would with his Maid Marian, Sup and bowse from horn and can. I have heard that, on a day, Mine host's sign-board flew away, No body knew whither, till An astrologer's old Quill To a sheepskin gave the story, Said he saw you in your glory, Underneath a new old-sign Sipping beverage divine, And pledging with contented smack, The Mermaid in the Zodiac. Souls of Poets dead and gone, Are the winds a sweeter home? Richer is uncellar'd cavern, Than the merry mermaid Tavern?[46] I will call on you at 4 to-morrow, and we will trudge together, for it is not the thing to be a stranger in the Land of Harpsicols. I hope also to bring you my 2nd Book. In the hope that these Scribblings will be some amusement for you this Evening, I remain, copying on the Hill, Your sincere friend and Co-scribbler JOHN KEATS. XXXV.--TO JOHN TAYLOR. Fleet Street, Thursday Morn [February 5, 1818]. My dear Taylor--I have finished copying my Second Book--but I want it for one day to overlook it. And moreover this day I have very particular employ in the affair of Cripps--so I trespass on your indulgence, and take advantage of your good nature. You shall hear from me or see me soon. I will tell Reynolds of your engagement to-morrow. Yours unfeignedly JOHN KEATS. XXXVI.--TO GEORGE AND THOMAS KEATS. Hampstead, Saturday Night [February 14, 1818].