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.