And sup and breakfast on (if ye comply),
For I have still some dozens of Champaign.’[308]
Witty Mat Prior, poet and diplomatist, was always ready to manifest his contempt for the heavy fluid with which the Methuen treaty deluged our island in place of the light fresh-tasting wines of France that had cheered and inspired his earlier sallies. Writing whilst in custody on a charge of treason between 1715 and 1717, and referring to the mind under the name of Alma, he tells us how
‘By nerves about our palate placed,
She likewise judges of the taste,
Else (dismal thought!) our warlike men
Might drink thick Port for fine Champagne.’[309]
He likewise inculcates a lesson of philosophy, especially suited to his own situation at that moment, when he remarks of fortune:
‘I know we must both fortunes try,