His Saturnalia


Dean Swift, among other eccentricities, determined upon having a feast

once a year, in imitation of the Saturnalia in ancient Rome. In this

project he engaged several persons of rank, and his plan was put in

execution at the deanery house. When all the servants were seated, and

every gentleman placed behind his own servant, the Dean's footman, who

presided, found fault with some meat that was not done to his taste; and

imitating his master on such occasions, threw it at him. But the Dean

was either so mortified by the reproof, or so provoked at the insult,

that he flew into a violent passion, beat the fellow, and dispersed the

whole assembly.--Thus abruptly terminated the Dean's Saturnalia.



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