They drank in picnic fashion, only seeking For some excuse to dance. There was the name Of meat and vegetables; fish, and crabs, Gudgeon and tench, and similago fine. 13. But Matron the parodist, says Plutarch, has given a very agreeable account of an Attic banquet; and as it is very rare I will not scruple, my friends, to repeat it to you-- The feast for much and varied food renown'd, Given by Xenocles, O Muse, resound;[220:1] For when at Athens he his cards sent round, I went invited, hungry as a hound. What loaves I saw, how large, how round, how fine,[220:2]-- So white, on them alone one well might dine! Boreas, enamour'd of the well-baked train, Gazed on them fondly;[220:3] while along the plain The stately Xenocles survey'd the ground, And placed the guests the goodly board around. Near him the parasite Chærephoon stood, And like a cormorant gazed upon the food,[220:4] Ever at other's cost well pleased to eat: Meanwhile the cooks prepared the dainty treat, The skilful cooks, to whom is given all sway The sumptuous feast to quicken or delay. Then all the rest the herbs and greens did seize, But me the solid meats did rather please; Rich oysters guarded in their solid shell, While to Phœnician-brine I said farewell; And threw away the urchin's tasteless meat, Which rattled falling at the servant's feet, Loud as the waves the rocky shore which flout,[220:5] While they in fun the prickly spines pull'd out. There came th' anchovy of Phaleric race Holding a dirty veil before its face,[220:6] Friend of the Triton, to the Cyclops dear; * * * * *