Fast day

Rowlandson, Thomas, 1756-1827 · March 20, 1812

Four learned Doctors, dressed in their clerical vestments, are keeping in their own fashion a day set apart by the Church for general mortification. The portly four are seated at a well-furnished board, and trains of servants are, with respectful attention, bringing in fresh supplies poultry, dainty meats, and other delicacies. The well-stocked collegiate cellars have been laid under contribution ; bottles of choice vintage are standing in wine-coolers and in promising rows on the floor, beside a liberal jorum of punch in a Bowl for a Bishop.