unaccustomed as I am (in this particular role, anyway)...

I take it that this sudden burgeoning of my flist is due to

ellen_kushner's post, linking to my rant about Lancelot.  You are all most welcome.  I feel obliged to warn you that my rapier wit is not sharpened daily (sigh).

However, for anyone who enjoyed this, you will probably also enjoy this, which is my Christmas present from the incorrigible mhari.  I feel safe in stating that we share an alter ego (and possibly a common ancestor).

I will be offline for the next week or so.  I may be neglectful in the comment department.

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And now, some early 17th century words to the tune of Greensleeves:

The old year fast away has fled,
the new year it is enterèd,
Then let us all our sins downtread
and joyfully all appear.
Let's merry be this day
and let us now both sport and play.
Hang grief, cast care away,
God send us a happy new year.

So now with New Year's gifts each friend
unto the other we do send
God grant we may all our lives amend
and that the truth may appear.
Now, like the snake your skin
cast off, of evil thought and sin,
and so the year begin;
God send us a happy new year.