Returning Janus now prepares, <br />For Bec, a new supply of cares, <br />Sent in a bag to Dr. Swift, <br />Who thus displays the new-year's gift. <br />First, this large parcel brings you tidings <br />Of our good Dean's eternal chidings; <br />Of Nelly's pertness, Robin's leasings, <br />And Sheridan's perpetual teazings. <br />This box is cramm'd on every side <br />With Stella's magisterial pride. <br />Behold a cage with sparrows fill'd, <br />First to be fondled, then be kill'd. <br />Now to this hamper I invite you, <br />With six imagined cares to fright you. <br />Here in this bundle Janus sends <br />Concerns by thousands for your friends. <br />And here's a pair of leathern pokes, <br />To hold your cares for other folks. <br />Here from this barrel you may broach <br />A peck of troubles for a coach. <br />This ball of wax your ears will darken, <br />Still to be curious, never hearken. <br />Lest you the town may have less trouble in <br />Bring all your Quilca's cares to Dublin, <br />For which he sends this empty sack; <br />And so take all upon your back.<br /><br />Jonathan Swift<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/a-new-year-s-gift-for-bec/
