The Magyar Noble

The sword which once my fathers bore,
Hangs on the wall and gleams no more,
Rust covers it instead of gore.
I am a Magyar noble.

I never work and never will,
The thought of labor makes me ill;
Peasant, 'tis thou the earth must till.
I am a Magyar noble.
Peasant, make good the road, I say,
Thy horse doth draw the load that way,
But- go afoot I never may.

I am a Magyar noble.

Wherefore should I for science care?
The sages always paupers were.
I never read or write — I swear! —
I am a Magyar noble.

One talent I possess complete,
Wherein none can with me compete:
That I right well can drink and eat.
I am a Magyar noble.

I never pay my tax when due;
Wealth have I, but not much, 'tis true.
What do I owe? I never knew.
I am a Magyar noble.

'The country's cares are naught to me;
I heed not all its misery.
Soon they will pass by fate's decree.
I am a Magyar noble.

My ancient rights and home decay,
And when I've smoked my life away,
Angels shall bear me up some day.
I am a Magyar noble.

— i o