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1849–1903

IX — LADY-PROBATIONER

William Ernest Henley

Some three, or five, or seven, and thirty years; A Roman nose; a dimpling double-chin; Dark eyes and shy that, ignorant of sin, Are yet acquainted, it would seem, with tears;

A comely shape; a slim, high-coloured hand, Graced, rather oddly, with a signet ring; A bashful air, becoming everything; A well-bred silence always at command.

Her plain print gown, prim cap, and bright steel chain Look out of place on her, and I remain Absorbed in her, as in a pleasant mystery. Quick, skilful, quiet, soft in speech and touch...

‘ Do you like nursing?’‘ Yes, Sir, very much.’ Somehow, I rather think she has a history.

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IX — LADY-PROBATIONER · William Ernest Henley · Poetry Cove