Satyricon of Petronius Arbiter

Turning his head, Trimalchio saw what was going on. Friends, he remarked. I ordered pea-hen’s eggs set under the hen, but I’m afraid they’re addled, by Hercules I am let’s try them anyhow, and see if they’re still fit to suck. We picked up our spoons, each of which weighed not less than half a pound, and punctured the shells, which were made of flour and dough, and as a matter of fact, I very nearly threw mine away for it seemed to me that a chick had formed already, but upon hearing an old experienced guest vow, There must be something good here, I broke open the shell with my hand and discovered a fine fat fig- pecker, imbedded in a yolk seasoned with pepper.