Tales and Novels of J. de La Fontaine — Volume 24 by Jean de La Fontaine
page 10 of 18 (55%)
page 10 of 18 (55%)
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Of heat and rage the ordinary course.
THE father of my wife, who's now no more, (Heav'n guard his soul, the loss I oft deplore,) A prudent honest man as any round, To calm my mind, a nice specifick found; The pill was rather bitter, I admit; But gilding made it for the stomach fit, Which he knew how to manage very well: No doctor in it him could e'er excel; To satisfy my scruples he displayed A CONTRACT (duly stamped and ably made), Four thousand to secure, which he had got, On similar occasion for a blot; His lady's father gave it to efface Domestick diff'rences and like disgrace: With this my spouse's fortune he increased; And instantly my dire complaining ceased. From family to family the deed Should pass, 'twill often prove a useful meed; I kept it for the purpose:--do the same Your daughter, married, may have equal blame. On this the son-in-law the bond received, And, with a bow, departed much relieved. MAY Heav'n preserve from trouble those who find, At cheaper rate, to be consoled inclined. |
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