It happened thus: my slab, though new,
Was getting weather-stained, beside,
Herbage, balm, peppermint, oergrew
Letter and letter: till you tried
Somewhat, the Name was scarce descried.
That strong stern man my lover came:
Was he my lover? Call him, pray,
My lifes cold critic bent on blame
Of all poor I could do or say
To make me worth his love one day,
One far day when, by diligent
And dutiful amending faults,
Foibles, all weaknesses which went
To challenge and excuse assaults
Of culture wronged by taste that halts,
Discrepancies should mar no plan
Symmetric of the qualities
Claiming respect from, say, a man
Thats strong and stem. Once more he pries
Into me with those critic eyes!
No question! so, Conclude, con...