Page:The Deipnosophists (Volume 3).djvu/352

 To be the food of gods, why then my guests Had rivall'd those above. I have, in fact, The power to lavish immortality On whom I please, or, by my potent art, To raise the dead, if they but snuff my dishes!

(Book vii. § 36, p. 455.)

A. I know it, my good friend, much has been said, And many books been written, on the art Of cookery; but tell me something new, Something above the common, nor disturb My brain with what I've heard so oft before.

B. Peace, and attend, you shall be satisfied— For I have raised myself, by due degrees, To the perfection of the art; nor have I pass'd the last two years, since I have worn The apron, with so little profit, but Have given my mind to study all its parts, T' apply that knowledge to its proper use; So as to mark the different sorts of herbs; By proper seas'ning, to give fish the best And highest relish; and of lentils too, To note the several sorts. But to the point: When I am call'd to serve a funeral supper, The mourners just return'd, silent and sad, Clothed in funereal habits—I but raise The cover of my pot, and every face Assumes a smile, the tears are wash'd away; Charm'd with the grateful flavour, they believe They are invited to a wedding feast

A. What, and give such effect, from a poor dish Of miserable fish, and lentils?

B.                               Ay; But this the prelude only, not worth noting; Let me but have the necessary means, A kitchen amply stored, and you shall see, That, like enchantment, I will spread around A charm as powerful as the siren's voice; That not a creature shall have power to move