Poetical Works of Oliver Wendell Holmes, the — Volume 02: Additional Poems (1837-1848) by Oliver Wendell Holmes
page 43 of 85 (50%)
page 43 of 85 (50%)
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Round thy chamber bolted fast
Many a youth shall fume and pout, "Hang the girl, she's always out!" While the second week goes round, Vainly shall they ring and pound; When the third week shall begin, "Martha, let the creature in." Now once more the flattering throng Round thee flock with smile and song, But thy lips, unweaned as yet, Lisp, "Oh, how can I forget!" Men and devils both contrive Traps for catching girls alive; Eve was duped, and Helen kissed,-- How, oh how can you resist? First be careful of your fan, Trust it not to youth or man; Love has filled a pirate's sail Often with its perfumed gale. Mind your kerchief most of all, Fingers touch when kerchiefs fall; Shorter ell than mercers clip Is the space from hand to lip. Trust not such as talk in tropes, Full of pistols, daggers, ropes; All the hemp that Russia bears Scarce would answer lovers' prayers; |
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