In lordly silver-dish, that weighs, at least,

As much as fifteen drachmas. In times past

A little cup presented to the Gods

Was thought a splendid offering; but such gifts

Are now but seldom seen,—and reason good,

For 'tis no sooner on the altar placed,

Than rogues are watching to purloin it thence. —Anon.


Alexis. (Book vi. § 28, p. 372.)

I'm ready, at the slightest call, to sup