Classic Poem

Les cinquante ecus

Thank God, I am an heir!
The charming trade
Of a holder of funds
For me was made;
To labor surely could not be my bent:
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns of rent.

Friends, the estate is mine;
If splendor please,
I can live royally
And at mine ease;
Honors escheated for my use are meant:
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns of rent

To enjoy the rich man's rights
Without delay,
A carriage will I have,
Well built and gay;
To fly my creditors my true intent:
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns of rent.

Adieu to the poor wines
Grown round Surêne!
The best Bordeaux, Mursaulx,
And famed Champagne
To my expectant lips at last are sent:
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns of rent.

Deck yourself, Lizzy, love!
Let wealth aspire
To put on every day
Some new attire;
No more on tinsel must for you be spent:
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns of rent.

Old relatives, and friends
Trusty and free,
Sister, so young and gay,
My guests are ye!
Food, lodging, dresses, shall be gladly lent:
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns of rent.

Friends, leisure, wine, and love!
I would bespeak
Your aid, to crown my hopes,
For one short week;
The stock shall follow where the interest went:
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns,
I've fifty crowns of rent.