Some books of mine old Cato's bride
And sober Sabine dames might read;
This one throws gravity aside
And is a very naughty screed.

It's wet with wine and feels no shame
With Cosmian perfumes to be sprayed,
It tells of Cupid's wanton game
And boldly calls a spade a spade.

But so did Numa long ago;
And these loose verses, pray remember,
Do not my life and manners show,
They're meant to suit with gay December.