Tales and Novels of J. de La Fontaine — Volume 07 by Jean de La Fontaine
page 7 of 32 (21%)
page 7 of 32 (21%)
![]() | ![]() |
|
One morn, alone she sought the lorn repair.
TO Fred'rick's eye an angel she appeared; But shame he felt, that she, his soul revered, Should find him poor:--no servants to attend, Nor means to give a dinner to a friend. The poverty in which he now was viewed, Distressed his mind and all his griefs renewed. Why come? said he; what led you thus to trace, An humble slave of your celestial face? A villager, a wretched being here; Too great the honour doubtless must appear; 'Twas somewhere else you surely meant to go? The lady in a moment answered no. Cried he, I've neither cook nor kettle left; Then how can I receive you, thus bereft? But you have bread, said Clytia:--that will do;-- The lover quickly to the poultry flew, In search of eggs; some bacon too he found; But nothing else, except the hawk renowned, Which caught his eye, and instantly was seized, Slain, plucked, and made a fricassee that pleased. MEANWHILE the house-keeper for linen sought; Knives, forks, plates, spoons, cups, glass and chairs she brought; The fricassee was served, the dame partook, And on the dish with pleasure seemed to look. THE dinner o'er, the widow then resolved, |
|