Courtesy at the Feast

The harper’s lovely, that I’ll say; I wish I could have heard her play. Good gentles, nobles, worthies all, We’ve gathered here within this hall To feast, and talk, and — one more thing: To hear the entertainers sing, The harpers harp, the bards recite, The minstrels play into the night. But there are those who talk and chatter As if performers didn’t matter. Think how it feels to pour your heart Into your craft, rehearse your art, Perform at feast before the crowd, Then find the talking was so loud That no-one _heard_; and those who would Enjoy the music if they could Were cheated too, denied the chance To hear the song or rhyme or dance. A talk delayed can still go on, But when the act is done — it’s gone. Now, no-one asks — not I, at least — That silence reign throughout the feast; And no-one orders or implores you To listen to an act that bores you. We’ll bear no grudges, shed no tears, If you put hands upon your ears ’Til act is done – and then resume Your talk, ’til talking fills the room. ......... But while the act is not yet done, I beg you, silence, every one. This kindness show, and you will be Renowned for knightly courtesy — Which, after all, is why we’re here, Reclaiming gracious yesteryear. I’ll make my toast with one more word: To entertainers that we _heard_. ........................................ ........................................ ........................................ ........................................