Those of the meaner sort are hindered, by the straitness of their fortunes, from encouraging intemperance in their children by the temptation of their diet, or invitations to eat or drink more than enough; but their own ill examples, whenever plenty comes in their way, show, that ’tis not the dislike of drunkenness or gluttony, that keeps them from excess, but want of materials. But if we look into the houses of those who are a little warmer in their fortunes, their eating and drinking are made so much the great business and happiness of life, that children are thought neglected, if they have not their share of it. Sauces and ragouts, and food disguised by all the arts of cookery, must tempt their palates, when their bellies are full; and then, for fear the stomach should be overcharged, a pretence is found for t’other glass of wine to help digestion, though it only serves to increase the surfeit.
Is my young master a little out of order, the first question is, “What will my dear eat? What shall I get for thee?” Eating and drinking are instantly pressed; and everybody’s invention is set on work, to find out something luscious and delicate enough to prevail over that want of appetite, which nature has