A02265:150
Mystical bedlam, or the world of mad-men. By ThoMystical bedlam, or the vvorld of mad-men. By Tho
Mystical bedlam, or the world of mad-men. By Tho: AdamsMystical bedlam, or the vvorld of mad-men. By Tho: Adams
London: printed by George Purslowe for Clement Knight, 1615
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
1. The Epicure.
I would fain speak (not only of him, but) with him. Can you tend it, Belly-god? The first question of my Catechism shall be, What is your name? Epicure. Epicure? What's that? speak not so philosophically; but tell us in plain dealing, what are you? A lover of pleasure, more then of God. 1One that makes much of my self; borne to live, and living loving to take mine ease. One that would make my belly my executor, and bequeath all my goods to consumption, for the consummation of my own delights. Hoh! a goodfellow, a merry man, a mad-man. What is your summū bonum? Pleasure. Wherein consists it? Rehearse the Articles of your belief. I believe that delicacies, junkets, quotidian feasts, suckets & marmalades are very delectable. I believe, that sweet wines and strong drinks; the best blood of the grape, or sweat of the corn is fittest for the belly. I believe that midnight revels, perfumed chambers, soft beds, close curtains, and a Delilah in mine arms, are very comfortable. I believe that glistering silks, and sparkling Jewels, a purse full of golden charms, a house neatly decked, gardens, orchards, fish-ponds, parks, warrens, and whatsoever may yield pleasurable stuffing to the corps, is a very heaven upon earth. I believe, that ⟨p. 49⟩to sleep till dinner, and play till supper, and quaff till midnight, and to dally till morning; except there be some intermission to toss some painted papers, or to whirl about squared bones; with as many oaths and curses, vomited out in an hour, as would serve the devil himself for a Legacy or stock, to bequeath to any of his children: this is the most absolute and perfect end of mans life.
I would faine speake (not onely of him, but) with him. Can you tend it, Belly-god? The first question of my Catechisme shall be, What is your name? Epicure. Epicure? What's that? speake not so philosophically; but tell vs in plaine dealing, what are you? A louer of pleasure, more then of God.