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1849–1903

IX — To W. R.

William Ernest Henley

Madam Life's a piece in bloom Death goes dogging everywhere: She's the tenant of the room, He's the ruffian on the stair.

You shall see her as a friend, You shall bilk him once and twice; But he'll trap you in the end, And he'll stick you for her price.

With his kneebones at your chest, And his knuckles in your throat, You would reason — plead — protest! Clutching at her petticoat;

But she's heard it all before, Well she knows you've had your fun, Gingerly she gains the door, And your little job is done.

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IX — To W. R. · William Ernest Henley · Poetry Cove