Brewer's: Stolen Things are Sweet

A sop filched from the dripping-pan, fruit procured by stealth, and game illicitly taken, have the charm of dexterity to make them the more palatable. Solomon says, “Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret [i.e. by stealth] is pleasant.”

From busie cooks we love to steal a bit Behind their backs, and that in corners eat; Nor need we here the reason why entreat; All know the proverb, `Stolen bread is sweet.' 

History of Joseph, n. d.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
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