love should die. My sins and derelictions cry aloud To all the world: my head is bowed Under its merited reproaches. Yours Is lifted to receive The sympathy the court’s decree insures. The world loves to believe In man’s depravity and woman’s worth; But I am one of many men on earth p. 80Whose loud resounding fall Is like the crashing of some well-built wall Which those who seek can trace To the slow work of insects at its base. . . . . . . . Be not afraid. The alimony will be promptly paid

p. 79

p. 80

p. 81A DIALOGUE

p. 81

HE

Let us be friends. My life is sad and lonely, While yours with love is beautiful and bright. Be kind to me: I ask your friendship only. No Star is robbed by lending darkness light.

SHE

I give you friendship as I understand it, A sentiment I feel for all mankind.

HE

Oh, give me more; may not one friend command it?

SHE

Look in the skies, ’tis there the star you’ll find; It casts its beams on all with equal favour.

HE

I would have more than what all men may claim.

p. 82SHE

p. 82

Then your ideas of friendship strongly savour Of sentiments which wear another name.

HE

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