Classic Poem

When first the guests approach the mats
Their manners are correct;
And even when they well have drunk,
They still are circumspect.

But when the guests have drunk too much,
They lose sobriety;
They shout and brawl and loudly sing,
— An impropriety.

If when a guest has drunk too much
He courteously depart,
His host and he would happy be,
Each having done his part.

But to remain when one is drunk
Is not a virtuous thing.
To drinking, though a custom good,
One must deportment bring.