"These Macedonians," said he, "are a rude and clownish people, that call a spade a spade."

Plutarch (46(?)-120(?) a d): Apophthegms of Kings and Great Commanders. Philip.

  I 'll give you leave to call me anything, if you don't call me "spade."

Jonathan Swift (1667-1745): Polite Conversation. Dialogue ii.