The World’s Wit and Humor: An Encyclopedia in 15 Volumes. 1906.
Fitz-Greene Halleck (17901867)A Fragment
Near the corner of Oak Street and Pearl;
He can dress, dance, and bow to the ladies with grace,
And ties his cravat with a curl.
That take place between Chatham and Cherry,
And when he’s been absent full oft has the “best
Society” ceased to be merry.
Nor disordered his beauship’s Elysium,
Till this season among our élite there has been
What is called by the clergy “a schism.”
Gives sponge-cake, a few “kisses” or so,
And is cooled after dancing with classic sherbet,
“Sublimed” [see Lord Byron] “with snow.”
Lobster salad, champagne, and, by way
Of a novelty only, those pearls of our sea,
Stewed oysters from Lynn-Haven Bay.
In the front parlor over her shop,
“Entertains,” as the phrase is, a party to-night
Upon peanuts and ginger pop.
But is wealthier far than Miss Flounce,
She “entertains” also, to-night, with cold tongue,
Smoked herring and cherry-bounce.
He of Teos sang sweetly of wine;
Miss Flounce is a Pindar in cashmere and cloak,
Miss Fleece an Anacreon divine.
In Pike Street the Capulets reign;
A limonadière is the badge of one race,
Of the other a flask of champagne.
What better, he asks, can be done,
Than drink water from eight until ten with the Flounces,
And then wine with the Fleeces till one!