To W. R.
Madam Life's a piece in bloom Death goes dogging everywhere:
She's the tenant of the room, He's the ruffian on the stair.
You shall see her as a friend, You shall bilk him once and twice;
But he'll trap you in the end, And he'll stick you for her price.
With his kneebones at your chest, And his knuckles in your throat, You would reason--plead--protest!
Clutching at her petticoat;
But she's heard it all before, Well she knows you've had your fun, Gingerly she gains the door, And your little job is done.
1877
