Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.

The service was of great array, That they were served with that day. Thus they ate, and made them glad, With such service as they had-- When they had dined, as I you say, Lordis and ladies yede to play; Some to tables and some to chess, With other games more and less.

This night I hold an old accustomed feast, Whereto I have invited many a guest, Such as I love; and you among the store, One more, most welcome, makes my number more.

Let us have wine and woman, mirth and laughter, Sermons and soda-water the day after.

There was a sound of revelry by night, And Belgium's capital had gather'd then Her Beauty and her Chivalry, and bright The lamps shone o'er fair women and brave men.

As much valour is to be found in feasting as in fighting, and some of our city captains and carpet knights will make this good, and prove it.