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1840–1928

X — IN THE NUPTIAL CHAMBER

Thomas Hardy

“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 do n'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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