Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). An American Anthology, 1787–1900. 1900.
By Silas WeirMitchell523 A Decanter of Madeira, Aged 86, to George Bancroft, Aged 86, Greeting
G
In “Teacup days” of hoop and hood,
And when the silver cue hung down,
And toasts were drunk, and wine was good;
From sideboards looked, and knew full well
What courage they had given the beau,
How generous made the blushing belle.
Of days when doors were locked at dinners!
Believe me, I have kissed the lips
Of many pretty saints—or sinners.
I don’t repent, but come what may,
What ready lips, sir, I have kissed,
Be sure at least I shall not say.
I Demi John, whole George are you;
When Nature grew us one in years
She meant to make a generous brew.
The sun our south-side vineyard knew;
To sterner tasks she set your life,
As statesman, writer, scholar, grew.
At last we meet. Your health to-night.
Take from this board of friendly hearts
The memory of a proud delight.
There ’s wisdom in my rare bouquet.
I ’m rather paler than I was;
And, on my soul, you ’re growing gray.
Has drained the last of me and you,
Some here shall say, They both were good,—
The wine we drank, the man we knew.