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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


TO MY HOUSEHOLD GODS by JEAN FRANCOIS DUCIS

First Line: YE LITTLE GODS WITH WHOM I DWELL
Last Line: AND VIRTUE NEVER 'SCAPE AWAY.

YE little gods with whom I dwell,
Companions of my poverty,
Who contemplate with friendly eye
My easy chair, my hermit cell,
My bed the hue of Carmelite,
My wardrobe made of walnut bright!
O my Penates! household gods,
Whose cherished presence safety bodes!
If I have never for your sake
Grudged ample feast of dainty cake,
For you have poured libations meet,
Of milk, wine, honey pure and sweet,
Then guard my door with faithful care,
Watch every hinge, and bolt and bar;
Not lest some burglar in should break,
For what on earth is there to take?
No treasures lodge in my abode,
I need no escort on the road;
One only modest prayer I make:

That competence may with us stay,
And virtue never 'scape away.



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