IN THE NUPTIAL CHAMBER

"O that mastering tune?" And up in the bed

Like a lace-robed phantom springs the bride;

"And why?" asks the man she had that day wed,

With a start, as the band plays on outside.

"It's the townsfolks' cheery compliment

Because of our marriage, my Innocent."

"O but you don't know! 'Tis the passionate air

To which my old Love waltzed with me,

And I swore as we spun that none should share

My home, my kisses, till death, save he!

And he dominates me and thrills me through,

And it's he I embrace while embracing you!"

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