mi I liWIHininHIHIIHWIi Book^SAlZAi. CopightN" 903 COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. Cupid is King ^ / /' ''d is Kinv\ By iX' Ro ,y Farrell Greene yj^\ H^« ^^ Vt ERI- TATI Boston Richard G. Badger The Gorham Press 1903 --. ^.:- : Copyright 1902^ by iRoy Farrell Greene All Rights Reserve J THE LIBRARY OP^i CONGRESS, Two CuPlce RtcsivED COPY 3= The major portion of the verses contained in this Volume originally appeared in Life, Truth, Puck, 'Judge, Smart Set, Munsey'' s^ Brooklyn Life, To^vn Topics, Ke'w England Magazine, N. T. Journal, Detroit Free Press and Youth' s Companion, and to the Editors and Proprietors of these Journals the Author presents his compliments and thanks for permission to use the same. The Gorham Press^ Boston TO MY Father Mother and Vf^ife WHO HAVE EVER BEEN MY MOST TENDER CRITICS, AND WHO HAVE NEVER FOUND A PLAUSIBLE REASON WHY MY MANUSCRIPTS SHOULD BE DECLINED THIS LITTLE VOLUME IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED September ist, '02. R, F. G. The Illustrations are by ALBERT r. REID csr The Decorations by WARREN ROCKWELL Illustrations ^^JVhen she puts her arms behind her in the haW^ Frontispiece An Uld Itme yaientine Facing Page 20 Holding the Skeins " 52 '^' When Grandma Danced « 84 In the Kitchen " 112 Contents Dorothy's Fan - - - The Way of a Man and a Maid Eavesdropping - - _ An Old Time Valentine Reminiscences - _ _ A Post-Nuptial Reverie In the Glow^ of Her Hair When Millie Goes Slumming Where Three's a Crowd 17 18 19 20 22 23 24 26 27 The Might of a Maid - - - _ 28 The Gossiping Tribe - - - - - 29 A Gown of Old Brocade - - - - ^o The Little Things of Love - - - - 32 The Minuet - - - - -- 33 In Lent - - - - - - - 35 At the Court's Mercy _ - - - 36 Arraigned -------37 A Post- Graduate Course - - - - 38 Times Changes - - - - - - 39 A Wager of Worth ----- 40 The Protest ------ 41 Slightly Altered 42 Exemplifying a Proverb - - - - 43 The Tables Turned _ - _ 4^ An Unconscious Pledge - - - - 45 A Pleasant Surprise - - , - - 46 In Church -_.--- 47 A Cultivated Taste 48 Love's Laurels ------ 49 A Common Grievance - - - - 50 A Specious Plea - - - - - - 51 Holding the Skem - - - - - 52 The Brides of June - - - - - 53 An Old Daguerreotype - - - - 54 Conspirator — A Cap - - - - - 55 At the Parsonage ----- 56 When Dolly Would A-Shopping Go - - 57 The Lover's Cryptogram - - - - 58 Her Lenten Gowns - - - - - 59 In Military Blue ----- 60 A Flower Garden - - - - - 61 Betrayed By Shadows _ _ _ _ 62 A Doubt Dispelled - - - - - 63 A Welcome Shade ----- 64 A Plea to Reformers - . - - - 65 Jack's Second Trial ----- 66 The Morning Service - - - - - 67 A Logical Reason ----- 68 A Plea for a Picture ----- 69 Promised Immunity ----- 70 Taken at Her Word 71 A Maid to Please a Man - - . - 72 Three Letters - - - - - - 73 A Holiday Fancy ----- 74 Jacqueminots - . - - - - 75 Sacrificed ------ 76 Still Guessing ------ 77 Appropriate ------ 78 An After Thought - - - - - 79 Too Busy ------ 80 On Evelyn's Hat 81 A New Republic ----- 82 A Winter's Thav^r 83 When Grandma Danced - - - - 84 The Limited Language of Love - - - 86 Temptress and Accuser - - _ - 87 Where Feathers Flaunt 88 A String of Olden Pearls - - - - 89 The Favored Number - - - - - 91 A Neighboring Garden - - - - 92 A Coming-Out Party - - - , - - 93 A Case at Court ----- g^ Out of Town ------ 96 My Lady's Valentine _ _ - - gj Under the Mistletoed Chandelier - - - 99 By Grace of Mabel's Muff - - - 100 Within My Lady's Purse - - - - 10 1 Tying Her Shoe - - - - - 102 The Bows Upon Her Slippers - - - 103 The Lowly Length of Lent - - - 105 An Early Spring - - - - - -106 Priscilla's Garden - - - - - 107 The Same Old Story - • - - - 108 In Bankruptcy - - - - - 109 So Wags the World - - - - -no The Proper Test - - - - - in In the Kitchen - - - - - -112 Love's Barometer - - - - - 113 A Mistake - - - - - - -114 An Explanation . _ _ _ 1 1 5 A Marked Discrepancy - - - - 116 A Literary Critic - - - - - 117 Her Mirror and Herself - - - - 118 A Blissfiil Boon - - - - - 119 A Culprit - - - - - - -120 Courteous Acknowledgment - - - 121 Her Subtle Power - . - - - 122 A Reminder - - - - - - 123 A Challenge - - - - - -124 Patriotic Colors - - - - - 125 When She Tripped the Minuet - - - 126 A Love Lilt From Bohemia - - - 127 The Reign of Dolly Madison - - - 128 A Bachelor's Love ----- 129 In the Choir - - - - - - 130 The Wmter Gu-1 131 When James Monroe Was President - - 132 The Bachelor Gu-1 - - - . - 134 Unchanged - - - - - -I35 When Dolly Plays Croquet - - - 136 Song of the Skater - - - - -'37 Cupid is King Cupid is King Dorothy's Fan Dorothy's fan has a ground-work of blue, Dorothy's fan is a drama of art; Lovers are grouped — and a peacock or two — No doubt but that an affair of the heart Moved the quaint artist in dreamy Japan Thus to make merry on Dorothy's fan. Here is a pathway — he's traced that in red — Strolhng adown it with parasol set Somewhat a-tilt o'er her proud little head — - Mark you this Japanese type of coquette; Walking beside her's the usual young man, Lovesick and smitten — on Dorothy's fan. Followeth then a succession of scenes. Portraying love as it prospers apace; Sweethearts in jackets of yellows and greens. Never a change in a figure or face; This is a romance of dreamy Japan Told by the artist on Dorothy's fan. Dorothy's prim as a puritan maid; When for her heart and her hand I would pray, Down droop her eyes to her fan — she's afraid Even a glance might a secret betray — Love is a romance and life is its span, Rc^d me my answer on Dorothy's fan. 17 Cupid is King The Way of a Man and a Maid A woman may be modest as a daisy in the field, Unkissable, staid, sober, prim and all. But at parting to temptation any man is apt to yield When she puts her arms behind her in the hall. When she trips from out the parlor and the lights are burn- ing low, ' And pauses just a last good night to call, A man wnll think her ready and believe she willed it so. When she puts her arms behind her in the hall. It may be but a fancy that she thus assumes a pose That's sure to make the noblest man to fall. For he 's very apt to make at least a venture ere he goes When she puts her arms behind her in the hall. Since **lips were made for kisses," as the poet tersely states. You couldn't blame the fellow after all. For, whether chance or will directs, a maiden tempts the fates When she puts her arms behind her in the haU. i8 Cupid is King Eavesdropping I heard her say, **I hate you, hate you, hate — '* 'Twas in the dusk of twilight, and I had But just a glimpse of two forms by a gate. Yet by her tone I knew that she was mad. And as I wandered farther down the street. Those words, **I hate you!" lingered in my mind. I wondered were she heartless, scornful, sweet. And if the man she hated were unkind. I grew distressed that love should come to harm. And speedily my wanderings retraced — They stood much closer, and what looked an arm Was resting, lover-like, around her waist. Cupid is King An Old Time Valentine Though the paper lace is yellowed. Mold and mildew seem to cling. And the years have rotted, mellowed. The beribboned gauzy thing; There's a bit of romance hedges Round each quaintly written line. Deep embossed upon the edges Of this old time valentine. It has lain within the garret For these many years agone. And the lightest touch would tear it Should your fingers rest upon The serrate edges fashioned In a delicate design. And the verses love impassioned Of this old time valentine. There are crinkles in the laces. All its beauty time has spent; There are wrinkles in the faces. And, like it, the backs are bent Of the ones who sent, received it — For it proved love's countersign. Though you would have scarce believed it Of this old time valentine. 20 •-v. Cupid is King So, like those whose cause it aided — Wedded now these many years — It is wrinkled, wan and faded. Yet such faithfulness endears. Servants few such service render. And it's proven, master mine. Hearts meant well the verses tender Of this old time valentine. 21 Cupid is King Reminiscences The Colonel was telling the story Of Grant and the Vicksburg campaign. The carnage, the grandeur, the glory — How bullets flew thicker than rain; And Mabel, his daughter, had listened To hear of the enemy's flight. Till her eyes with an eagerness glistened As she questioned: **How long did you fight?" "For months, dear, the campaign's assuagement Unrealized was, but the haze Of war cleared sometimes — no engagement With us lasted more than three days!" **Oh, pshaw! And you call that a hummer. When three-day engagements were fireaks? Why, I knew one at Long Branch last summer That lasted a month or six weeks!" 22 Cupid is King A Post-Nuptial Reverie The wedding, last night, was a royal affair. According to all of the papers. The perfume of flowers afloat in the air. The mellowing light of the tapers. And Nellie leaned proud on the arm, so they say. Of papa, clear up to the altar. Repeating the vows in a confident way With no inclination to falter. The bridesmaids arrayed in their virginal white Were symphony's sweetest creations. The music soared up to the regions of light As though it were Heaven's oblations To Nellie, and yet a grim sense of unrest The whole of the evening enthralled me ; My senses went whirling, my heart was distressed. The scene at the altar appalled me. It seemed that I lived through a troublesome dream. E'en Nellie was thrilled with emotion, I once caught her eye and its sparkle and gleam Seemed soft in its sense of devotion. The crowd lingered late, all their homage to pay. And yet even longer I tarried. I jealously wanted to steal her away. Since I was the fellow she married. Cupid is King In the Glow of Her Hair The ripples and waves of her beautiful hair Reflect all the glint and the glow of the sun; The jewels that gather and fasten it there Seem bathed in the gold which a conqueror won. The coralline curves of her lips as they part In a smile, and the dimple that rests in her cheek. Seem to wake from a dreamful repose with a start. And all of her graces so ardently speak. She' s charming, and yet for my heart there' s a snare That rests in the sheen of her beautiful hair. Her lashes are wet with the dews of the heart That rain through the soul- windows, deepest of blue. As she wantonly tears all those petals apart And is pricked by the thorn that the Love-roses grew ! The mantle of lace thus enshrouding her breast But heaves with the pain which each mortal must know j And the drapings conceal as they peacefiilly rest On two drifted heaps of the downiest snow; Yet, of these sweet charms there is naught can compare With the glamour and glow oi her beautiful hair. 24 Cupid is King There's pain in her frown, there is joy in her smile. There's balm for the heart in her musical laugh; One worships her graces, her every wile, — She scatters her favors as though they were chaff. Pride walks by her side, and I jealously pout That Fortune to me should have been so unkind. For she's the queen debutante y just coming out. And I'm not a millionaire. — Love may be blind! And yet it were well for my heart to beware Of the magical glow of her beautiful hair. 25 Cupid is King When Millie Goes Slumming When Millie goes slumming, it seems that all care Drifts lightly away on a breath of fresh air. The dark, squalid streets are as meadowlands fair. Where wild bees are humming; Of darkening shadow there's never a trace. Each corner that leers as a grewsome old place Is lighted and cheered by her sunshiny face. When Millie goes slumming. The little street Arabs they steal up the stairs That lead to the portals of poverty's lairs And cry out, as though taken quite unawares: **An angel is coming!" Their hasty conclusions I take to be true. Admitting she's human, between me and you She's doing just that which real angels would do — When Millie goes slumming. ?^ Cupid is King Where Three' s a Crowd To parks and plays she's gone with me For eighteen months or more, I*ve found her best of company In trips a-sea, ashore; And yet of love she's never framed A v^ord for me, I'll own. Yet for this lack she can't be blamed, — She's Dolly's chaperon. She never views in listless way At flower-shows the prize. She quite appreciates a play — You see that in her eyes; Her sphere of action's limited. The escort's not her own. But unobtrusive, be it said. Is Dolly's chaperon. She's twenty-five if she's a day. And Dolly's but nineteen. Her eyes are blue and Dolly's gray — Blue eyes are true, I ween; Since **three's a crowd," I think, mayhap, I'U woo a maid alone, — I've half-a-mind to set my cap For Dolly's chaperon. 27 Cupid is King The Might of a Maid Had I been jester to the king At some forgotten court. The mark of every quip and fling. The butt of jest and sport, I think such life I'd grown to hate, A simple clown to be. And would have roundly cursed the fate That made a fool of me. But kings and courts have passed away. The jester's tribe has flown, I could not if I w^ould to-day Take his lot for my own. Yet, I am, though with kings we're done. In danger still, you see We're ruled by Woman, now, and one Has made a fool of me! 28 Cupid is King The Gossiping Tribe Curse the little things unspoken That one quite unwilling hears Whispered loud, and by that token Knows intended for his ears. Mrs. Grundy s, matrons haughty. Long beneath their tongues have rolled Dainty morsels — something naughty — Hinted at, but never told. How discreet they seem in giving Out the secrets known to them! Someone's home life's not worth living. Someone saw — ahem! ahem! Well it would not be surprising \£ he^ d find out she^ s so bold! Always something compromising Hinted at, but never told. Curse the little things malicious. Things they hint but ne'er describe ! Reputation's vultures vicious Are the Mrs. Grundy tribe. Peace destroyers, common vandals. Wolves within the social fold. With their lengthy list of scandals Hinted at, but never told. 29 Cupid is King A Gown of Old Brocade She wore her grandma's old brocade All trimmed wnth olden lace. The same old gown, the same old braid, A new and sweeter face; The while we whirled in dreamy waltz My thoughts in fancy flew, I wondered was the world so false When that old lace was new. Did hearts as often sigh and break? Did sorrow walk the land? Did circumstance make men forsake The fiiture they had planned? Were ears by subtle flattery fed? Were friends, as now, untrue? Did maids for love, not wealth, then wed. When that old lace was new? Or did an honest heart and hand Above all else suffice To merit praise, and \drtue stand Pre-eminent o'er vice? Was fashion's whirl as giddy then? Did hopes of fame imbue The hearts and brains of worldly men. When that old lace was new? 30 Cupid is King The music ebbs and dies away. Reflections lose their charm, A face looks up in winning way, A hand is on my arm. Love reigns supreme to-day as then. We learn by rote to woo. The same old passion lives in men As when that lace was new. 31 Cupid is King The Little Things of Love The little things of love we prize Through all the after years. And, resurrecting them, our eyes Beam through a mist of tears, A fragile flower careful pressed, A worn and crumpled glove, — We somehow always deem the best The little things of love. The richer gifts are thrown aside. Like shuttle-cocks they're tossed Within the court of years, so wide. Until perchance they're lost. Fate's battle-dore that wanton drives Rare gifts our reach above We'll not lament, while still survives The little things of love. Spare us but these, we'll ask no more. For time's relentless mold May rust, corrode, and tarnish o'er The filigrees of gold. The trifles all devoid of art, A ribbon, note, or glove. We'll cloister these within our heart — The little things of love. 32 Cupid is King The Minuet 1780 Tripped they light the minuet. Hearts enmeshed in Cupid's net. Maiden fair and gallant beau. On the New Year long ago. Rich brocade and rarest lace Grandma wore when Lafayette Danced with her in courtly grace Long ago the minuet. 1850 Grandma's gone, but Juliette Joins me in the minuet. Same old laces, same old gown. Through the years are handed down. And to-night my sweetheart wears E'en the glance my heart to fret. As did Grandma on New Year's When she danced with Lafayette. 33 Cupid is King Gleam and glamour, jewels, gems. Fit for queenly diadems. Shine and shimmer, glint and glow, Fields without are white with snow; All within with love is bright. Tossing curls that mock the jet. Pleasure sways our hearts to-night. Tripping light the minuet. 1902 Gone the glory and the glare. Shattered all the castles fair That we builded, hope so high. Music ebbing, slow to die. Careless dancers, tripping fast, Bess and Rose and Juliette, Dreamings were too sweet to last — While we danced the minuet. 34 Cupid is King In Lent In Lenten season Mabel wears A sombre gown of gray, I wonder how such beauty dares To hide itself away From all the world's frivolity And seem to feel content; But here's an end to jollity While Mabel's keeping Lent. If Mabel knew when Lent begins Comes Cupid with his dart. That penance seeking for my sins I'd cloister in her heart. Perhaps beneath her sober mien. Her look of meek content. There might the light of love be seen. While Mabel's keeping Lent. 35 Cupid is King At the Court's Mercy This being in love is a troublesome thing. Quite so when the young lady's father's averse; Opposing his wishes brings Conscience's sting And manifold woes that I need not rehearse. Now Madeline's father is set against me. But law will sustain me in holding the fort; Denying my plea for to woo her, you see. Is clearly a case of contempt for the court. 36 Cupid is King Arraigned He plead his case with a lawyer's art. He chokingly vowed repentance. Then rested his cause with a loving heart. And gravely awaited sentence. She pardoned the culprit, a woman's way. Nor thought of the sinful lies That men speak ever so light, each day. At the bar of a woman's eyes. 37 Cupid is King A Post-Graduate Course When we attended Friendship's school. And took the grades in turn. It seemed each lesson, task, and rule Was quite too hard to learn. But now one answer: — bliss, we get For every sum we try. And Love has pruned the alphabet To only U and I. 38 Cupid is King Time's Changes AT 20 She's a gay debutante with her suitors a score. They go at a frown and they come at a glance. And this is the problem she's worrying o'er: * 'Of all that have asked me with whom shall I dance?' AT 30 The suitors perplexing have vanished and flown, A lapse often years makes a change, as you see. She's wondering now as she sits there alone: **A schottische, I wonder who'll dance it with me?" 39 Cupid is King A Wager of Worth We had a dispute o'er a trifling affair, Priscilla and I, and I would not concede That she might be right, and she gave me the dare To back up my views with a bet, 'Twas agreed! **Shall we wager bon-bons, lovers usually do?" ''Too common," she answered, her cheeks red as wine. So, studying something in stakes that was new, 'Twas agreed she should put up her lips against mine. 40 Cupid is King The Protest With Estella I stood in the hall where the light Fortunately was dim, as I noted with bliss. And I made up my mind when I bade her good night To steal I would dare from her lips a sweet kiss. **Oh, what would my dear girl's mamma think," I said, * 'If she knew a bold man was caressing you here?" "No, no!" she replied, with a droop of her head, **She never would hear of your kissing me, dear!" 41 Cupid is King Slightly Altered When Mrs. Parvenu entertained The social-culture club at tea A constant laugh of mirth unfeigned Ran round the circled company. The richest treat of all, they say. Was when, before her guests had gone. She bade the orchestra to play *'That sympathy from Meddlejohn. " 42 Cupid is King Exemplifying a Proverb The young man who suddenly turns against wine. And though at the club he is urged **Just a sip,'' Steadfastly refuses, will think of this line, * 'There's many a sHp 'twixt the cup and the lip. " The boys at the club wonder what's taken place That such a good fellow should now be a churl — The **slip 'twixt the cup and the lip" in this case Is a near httle, dear little, slip of a girl. 43 Cupid is King The Tables Turned When Polly laughs it seems the world Takes on a rare and richer hue; The ship of care with sails unfiirled. Clears sullen ports for ocean's blue. Yet when I mention love to her It quite destroys the simile; For — ^well, you see its different, sir. When — well, when Polly laughs at me. 44 Cupid is King An Unconscious Pledge She was wilful, and very much set in her ways. When once a resolve she got into her head. To each suitor planned for her objection she'd raise, **I'll marry the man whom I please!" so she said. And, hearing of this declaration, with main And might I went wooing, and won her, you see. Because I assured her, and made it quite plain That 'twas I held her pledge, since she'd clearly pleased me. 45 Cupid is King A Pleasant Surprise I never thought Nellie was timid, afraid. Or prudish, so narrow with puritan pride, I deemed her a twentieth-century maid. Yet when I attempted to kiss her she cried. As I passed 'neath the gas-jet I turned it ofF, so 'Twas dark in the hall when we parted last nighty, That accounts for the kiss, and ecstatic if low She cried out an "oh!" in delicious delight! 46 Cupid is King In Church I never mark the pastor's pose. His ministerial air; I never even note the clothes The congregation wear; Repeat the text I could not do, I'm deaf to every plea When Prudence occupies the pew Across the aisle from me. She sits a sweet divinity Of goodness and of grace; Then, is it strange naught else I see Of hope save in her face? A hope earth earthy 'tis, 'tis true. Yet saving grace I see. When Prudence occupies the pew Across the aisle from me. Perhaps the pastor's fervent speech To his flock giveth food. The theme seems quite beyond my reach. Though well with love imbued. That part I grasp, and take as true. For mine's the mood, you see. When Prudence occupies the pew Across the aisle from me. 47 Cupid is King A Cultivated Taste The books that Laura reads are such As breathe of grass grown lea and dell. Of violets and just a touch Of honest love that prospers well; A pasture field, a lowing herd. Trysts, well to suit romance's needs. The twilight dusk, the homing bird. In every book that Laura reads. Such things were never to my taste; A book of travel suits me well. Or history; it seemed a waste Of time to sit 'neath fiction's spell; But late Macaulay dull has grown. From Gibbon all my love secedes; I've come somehow to like the tone Of every book that Laura reads. She reads them first and underscores A loving passage here and there; They seem to echo love in stores — To dream it mine I sometimes dare! And though each chapter of the tale Opes with an amorous poet's screeds. There's something to my heart regale In every book that Laura reads. 4& Cupid is King Loves Laurels The king may sing of his signet ring. The prince of his trusty blade. But Colin' s song hath a sweeter swing. To the heart of the peasant maid. And so I chorus the loving lay That never of knighthood knew. Let those who may wear the wreaths of bay — I'd rather be poor with you. I'm blest, at best, with no wild unrest, I envy no man's estate, I'd rather be once by your lips caressed Than to linger long and late With luring, languorous lips that learn No lesson of love that's true; Their touch I'd spurn with an unconcern — I'd rather be kissed by you. A crown, renown, and the softest down Of couch for a bed of ease. Why, I'd never give hem of your gingham gown For glory and glow of these. Limoges, and Dresden, and rarest Delf Shall never my hopes imbue. Nor princely pelf, nor the crown itself — I'd rather be poor with you. 49 Cupid is King A Common Grievance Ah, little glove, you* re worn upon the fingers, A button's missing too, but I confess A pleasant memory about you lingers. Like sweetness of some yester-year caress. She cast you off with petulant emotion. Forsooth, because your usefulness was o'er. And, somehow, I have formed the silly notion That, little glove, we ought expect no more! Companions deep in misery, let's sorrow, I too by newer rival cast aside; Her mood may change with coming of the morrow. Perhaps she' 11 freely sacrifice her pride And learn, dear little glove, that lesson olden. How novelty is foe to sweetest rest. That sentiments of faithfiilness are golden, — Old times, old gloves, old lovers are the best! 5° Cupid is King A Specious Plea In Cupid's court the judges sit And wrestle o'er contentions bony. They nearly always find, to-wit: There's most conflicting testimony. They sat in judgment yester-eve, — Young Love was prisoner, cheeks aglow,- The charge was: effort to deceive By turning parlor lights down low. He plead annoyance at the glare Of twinkling, spangled chandelier. And with the most defiant air He faced the court, as though a peer. The grave old judges did not find! The case was nolled, but still the wise Are wondering: ** If Love is blind How can the light affect his eyes?'* 51 Cupid is King Holding the Skein When Madge and I were sweethearts, in the winters long ago. We used to trace the future in the fire's ruddy glow. The pictures are forgotten, but the memories remain Of Madge the yarn a-winding, and I — I held the skein. I watched her nimble fingers with their tips as red as wine. And if the yarn grew tangled — why, it wasn't fault of mine. For I was building castles where my little queen should reign. While Madge the yarn was winding, and I — I held the skein. Demure as any nun was she, this little queen of mine, 'Twas plain that I should be the oak, and she the clinging vine; She bent to every whim of mine, and ne'er did she com- plain In those days when she wound the yarn, and I — I held the skein. But since we now are married, and our children clamber round. And find the fire pictures that so long ago we found. And now that there's a frock to mend and little socks to darn. She vdnds me round her finger as she used to do the yarn. 52 Cupid is King The Brides of fune The purple pansies nod their heads In rapture uncontrolled. There gleams from out a hundred beds The daisy's heart of gold; Sweet William, pinks, and mignonette Yield fragrance night and noon. Tiptoeing lilies anxious fret To glimpse the brides of June. Then on the bush beside the gate A bud from sleep awakes. With feverish haste that scarce can wait The bloom from bondage breaks; The royal rose, heraldic of True hearts that beat in tune. Outstretches petal arms of love To greet the brides of June. 53 Cupid is King An Old Daguerreotype The rounded case shows age's tinge And just a trace of mold; The back displays a broken hinge That still contrives to hold; The pictured face within is faint. The dust away you wipe And see the limning of a saint — An old daguerreotype. The while she posed, a winsome lass. The soul of girlish grace. An artist prisoned 'neath this glass The beauty of her face; The curls that crowned her maiden brow. The cheeks as cherries ripe — A legacy from Then to Now, An old daguerreotype. 'Tis meet that such a face, so pure. Should with its smiles live on. In hearts of later growth endure. Though she herself be gone. Her grave with grass is grown about. Around it plovers pipe. But she still lives and smiles from out An old daguerreotype. 54 Cupid is King Conspirator — A Cap The golfing cap that Dolly wears Hath not a trace of trimmings fancy. But brave indeed is he who dares Investigate its necromancy; For all-mysterious charms allure And take you captive unawares; There* s sorcery about, I'm sure. The golfing cap that Dolly wears. There's not a flower, ribbon, plume. Or aught of milliner's creation; No bird to deck it met its doom. And stuffed upon it takes its station; It's plain as plain can be, and yet There hidden lie most subtle snares When on a mass of curls is set The golfing cap that Dolly wears. Long had I laughed at Cupid's sport. And dodged his skilfiil archery. But straightway I was brought to court When Dolly set her cap for me; And Cupe, the rascal, danced for joy To see he'd trapped me unawares. Abetted by — pray, bless the boy — The golfing cap that Dolly wears. 55 Cupid is King At the Parsonage Though I've heard people say that the Parson's passe, A fogy without any doubt. And so much out of touch with the world of to-day He has quite lived his usefulness out. Just why that should be my concern I can't see. His flock's criticisms, forsooth. And, frankly, he' s persona grata to me When I wait in the parlor for Ruth. Ere she trips down the stairs, upon churchly affairs Quite frequent the Parson dilates. And I always agree with the view that he airs. Or the temporal truth that he states; Though it may not be plain, yet I always refrain From querying after that truth. Though I fear by my silence he guesses I'd fain Be changing the subject to Ruth. Though he discourses on Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. And points out their beauties to me. More anxious am I an awakening dawn Of love-light in two eyes to see; With wings of a dove far beyond and above Earth's earthy his heart soars, forsooth. While I am content with the gospel of love — The gospel according to Ruth. 56 Cupid is King When Dolly Would A-Shopping Go No stretch of canvas-sign I need. No hand-bill pressed into my hand. Nor page advertisement to read. That I the all may understand; By just the clinging, loving way She welcomes me I've come to know Tomorrow must be bargain-day. And Dolly would a-shopping go. My quite suspicious nature scents By just her coddling mood a sign That something sold at iifty cents Has been marked down to forty-nine; The pats, to soften me devised. And loving hugs, by these I know A bargain-sale's been advertised. And Dolly would a-shopping go. An easy-chair she'll place for me, The evening paper bring, and then I wonder if this sorcery To me will mean a **five" or **ten"; **You'll let me off with *five' you say. Dear wife?" (accent on dear you know). That's luck, when comes a bargain-day. And Dolly would a-shopping go. 57 Cupid is King The Lover s Cryptogram In every note that Nora writes — Those little notes, not one efRisive, — Some sentence stands, and thought invites. And yet the vv^hat I seek's elusive. For, be it thanks for flowers sent. Or slight request that she indites, I try to fathom love's intent Within each note that Nora writes. A cryptogram of each I make. And try to reason out the signs, A blot, a word crossed out, a break In sentences, between the lines; The answered question, yet unasked, I seek to find; the troths, the pHghts, And hope to catch her heart unmasked In every note that Nora writes. 58 Cupid is King Her Lenten Gowns How great the sacrifice to place Each lovely gown for weeks away. The folds on folds of dainty lace. And clothe herself in sombre gray. Yet, note the charming toned effect When garb of gray, red cheeks, are blent. No Worth would ever dare dissect The gowns that Mabel wears in Lent. One touch of nature makes us kin. And when she tripping goes to pra}'er Men pause in marts of greed and sin. Of innocence and beauty dare To steal a surreptitious glance. Mute blessings 'long her way are sent. In reverence fingers touch, perchance. The gowns that Mabel wears in Lent. By sinners all, the gowns are blessed As garb that clothes sweet purity; I bless them when my arms find rest About her waist, for I, you see. Am her affianced! No chiffon In loving tete-a-tete is rent, I muss no filmy lace upon The gowns that Mabel wears in Lent. 59 Cupid is King In Military Biue Since winning hearts has grown an art In which all maidens vie. And nothing's proof against the dart The archer Cupe lets fly; Men dodge as best they can, nor dare To raise a cry or hue. When Dolly's gowned, to take the air. In military blue. Now, if the gown were black or brown Brave men might dare their fate. Behind some shield to kneel them down. Or dart-proof armor-plate; But sortie, skirmish as you may The chances are but few. When Dolly's gowned, and trips your way. In military blue. No **Halt!" you hear, and yet a fear Of being challenged comes. Your beating heart seems to your ear The rat-tat-tat of drums; Then you surrender, since, you see There's nothing else to do. When Dolly's gowned, — Cupe's aide is she- In military blue. 60 Cupid is King A Flower Garden Myrtilla's flower garden's quite A heart-enchanting plot, A bended knee it claims by right Of worship on the spot; Since roses nod at every breeze. And blue-bells lift their head Along with daisies, pinks, heart's ease. And sweet-peas, white and red. It needs no floriculturists' care. It hath no need of rake Or spade or hoe, there is, I swear. No earthy clods to break; The garden's fenced with white chiffon. You marvel much thereat? — Why, all these blossoms bloom upon Myrtilla's summer hat. Cupid is King Betrayed By Shadows The rippling mandolins have ceased their throbbing. The waltz has ebbed its soul away, and died. The soft guitars have stilled their notes in sobbing. The music's ceased, like slow retreating tide. Behind a screen in yonder farthest corner Two dancers stand apart, the place forget. There's danger! Oh, that I might warn her That screens sometimes reflect a silhouette. It seems a shame to watch them, e'er so slyly, — Of course one cannot hear a word that's said, — In pantomime one sees her shrinking shyly. Then on his shadow-shoulder rests a head. There's others looking now! It's simply horrid! The watchers mark the moment of eclipse, — The profile of a moustache near her forehead. Then lower, — lower , — ah, he's dared her lips! 62 Cupid is King A Doubt Dispelled She was a woman! And yet he wondered if her haughty pride Would vanish should he steal unto her side And, shunning all disguise, should grow so bold As to repeat a story eons old; If he should dare her ruby lips to press Would they rebuke him with their frigidness? So different she from others he had met. And so he hesitated, doubt beset. Tiptoeing to her side he plead his case. But feared to raise his eyes unto her face To read the answer, which the sages say Shines forth in woman's eyes, of blue or gray. He meekly bowed his head in suppliant mien. As though he were a page, and she his queen. Then, oh, what joy, what wild transport of bliss. He raised his head, two lips were pursed to kiss!- She was a woman! 63 Cupid is Ki7jg A Welcome Shade In August days I rarely roam By inland lake or ocean bay, A not unwilling stay-at-home I labor at my desk each day; And though I seek no sylvan glade, - A sweeter boon is mine than all. For, ah, I find a welcome shade 'Neath Dolly's silken parasol. When Dolly deigns to take a walk I'm near to join her, so, you see. We oft enjoy a pleasant talk Beneath the lace-fringed canopy; And though the sun with torrid spite Beams down on this terrestial ball. We're screened against his vengeance quite 'Neath Dolly's silken parasol. The out-of-towners and their ilk We envy not, 'tis pleasant here When just a circling span of silk Doth bring two heads so very near; And when love's vows we whisper low. We're interrupted not at all, A fact we found out long ago 'Neath Dolly's silken parasol. 64 Cupid is King A Plea to Reformers That wine is a mocker full oft I've been told. And warned 'gainst the glint, like a sorcerer's glance. The sparkle and glow of the chrome and the gold The sunshine bestowed on the, vineyards of France, But tempted I'm not by a blue-ribbon brand With which Bacchus sways and dull care from us woos. There's but one temptation I cannot withstand, — The nectared potation that Dorothy brews. When I see her the chafing-dish set to one side. The rare-bit quite *'done to a turn," as they say. And bring forth the tea-pot, 'tis then I decide 'Twill simply be useless for me to say nay; For something like magic that works upon me She'll out of that Hyson or Oclong infuse. And it's safe to assert soon a-sipping I'll be The nectared potation that Dorothy brews. Oh, why should they warn us ' gainst vintage that comes From the Mediterranean's grape-growing shores? We fear more that draught that our speech quite benumbs. And quickens our hearts, from the China tea stores. Then hearken reformers, give ear to my plea. Make war 'gainst the cup that I cannot refuse. Champagne's wholly safe, but I pray you save me From the nectared potation that Dorothy brews. 65 Cupid is King yack's Second Trial The second time that Jack proposed, 'Twas really a surprise. Though 1 still — gossips so supposed — Found favor in his eyes. His first avowal, months before, I'd treated with disdain. And laughed at him the while he swore He'd try again, again! The second time that Jack proposed I never said a word. Though to assent I'd grown disposed — I simply overheard By accident his earnest plea While in the waltz' whirl — The second time 'twas not to me. But to another girl! 66 Cupid is King The Morning Service Her fingers touch the organ keys. Awakening sweet harmonies That, borne upon the summer breeze. Float out so airy Through chancel-window, down the aisle^ Their pleading notes dull cares beguile. For Mabel's touch hath much of wile In Voluntary. To those by worldly problems vexed. By doubts and troubles sore perplexed. She seems the sermon, creed, and text Of all that's merry, A something from the world apart. That drowns the dreams of busy mart. That speaks a peace to every heart Involuntary. 67 Cupid is King A Logical Reason Ten years ago sweet Kate and I Were wont to walk, neath skies of blue. She'd counted sixteen years slip by While I had counted twenty-two. To-day we met, and half in jest I asked her age, she smiled serene. And with the sweetest blush confessed Herself to be just sweet sixteen. **Why then am I aged thirty-two If you still *sweet sixteen' are classed?" She answered quickly: **That is due To this, you young men live so fast!" 68 Cupid is King A Plea for a Picture A kodak she's carried to mountain and shore. She's snapped it in country and town. And she's certainly bought out a chemical store In making her blue prints and brown; She spends in the dark-room one half of her time, Developing-tray bends above. She's so wrapped-up she wont listen reason or rhyme. And turns a deaf ear to my love. A Senator here and a Congressman there. She's snapped, yes, and two or three Counts. Why of cardboard she's used, if a guess I may dare. At least a car-load in her mounts; And nothing she talks of save lighting or shades. When one word of love, please the fates, I'm waiting to hear. How the romance all fades As she chatters of films and plates ! She has taken pug-dogs, ugly creatures at best. And pussy-cats, curse the felines; And newsboys and bootblacks, cowboys from the West, Grimed toilers of mills and of mines. She has taken all types of humanity, yea. All objects of earth, air and sea. It seems, and I'm living in hopes that some day She may be induced to take me. 69 Cupid is King Promised Immunity I find a dainty, scented note fi-om Grace Within my morning's mail, it runs like this: * 'Stolen, last night, from its abiding place Upon two lips, a rather hurried kiss. To owner known is he who dared to steal. Yea, long in her affections he has basked. So, if no later than this evening, he'll Return the same there'll be no questions asked." 70 Cupid is King Taken at Her Word The news was hailed with much of doubt When friends of our engagement heard. And yet, in truth, it came about Because I took her at her word. I thus explained in such a way As puzzled them, I must confess, — I might have been induced to say The word I took her at was "yes." 71 Cupid is King A Maid to Please a,^ Man t duly appreciate maidenl j toil, EmlHtiideiy, tatdng, and simple crochet, A pointing on china, a study in oil. Some girls so CTiploy themselves day after day. But they're hard to nuj:e We to when thus they're em- ployed. And so, ibr my own fiancee, I insist On a girl that's less busy. I'd be ovojoyed With one who had nothing to Ao but be kissed. Cupid is King Three Letters She wrote three little letters. All in answer to the note He'd sent proposing marriage. Vowing long on her he'd dote. She wrote the three, his rapture I'll leave you all to guess — For one was Y, the next was E, The final one was S. 73 Cupid is King A Holiday Fancy I called last night, and Laura sang A song I hailed with glee. With tenderness her sweet voice rang: **Then you'll remember me." But it's so near to Christmas day, A hint it seemed to be. And this what Laura meant to say: Then Tule remember me! 74 Cupid is Kiyig yacqueminots The roses on her breast are Jacks, The heart that beats beneath is mine. My faith in her doth not relax Because the roses all are Jacks, Forsooth, in getting at the facts You'll find a quip of her design — She wears of roses none but Jacks, But heart and roses both are mine 75 Cupid is King Sacrificed My life seems a blank for the space of a week, A blank for a month more 'twill be. The whole round of clubs for enjoyment I seek. Yet I'm bored and worn-out with ennui. Estella must needs sacrifice something dear. And I doubt not her course is well meant. But the few weeks ahead look decidedly drear. Since she's given up me during Lent. 76 Cupid is King Still Guessing That Laura's a puzzle I'm free to admit. She's rollicking rather than rude. But I've been so often the butt of her wit I'm hopeless to fathom a mood That is hers, she has smiled and then frowned upon me. Lees, nectar, her whim's bade me sup. Yet, though clearly a puzzle is Laura, you see, I'm determined I shan't give her up. 77 Cupid is King Appropriate Priscilla is my Klondike girl. At least I call her so. There's gold in every straggling curl. Alluring in its glow. The appellation's naught to do, Howe'er, with aught of gold, 'Tis based on this: Whene'er I woo She's distant and so cold ! 78 Cupid is King An After 'Thought **She's a dream, she's a dream," those who know her proclaim. As her virtues and charms thej^ rehearse. And yet, I'm incHned to believe, just the same. She's wilfully set and perverse. For it's easy to see, though a dream she may be. The statement a subterfuge carries. And often the maxim occurreth to me. That ** dreams always go by contraries". 79 Cupid is King V. Too Busy When Cupid came that weary day And begged that I with him go wooing, I paused just long enough to say: **Fie, Love's a busy man's undoing ! " I dreamed that night a dream of you. And at my door young Love came tapping. Though captured neat I spoke him true: **By Jove, but, Cupe, you caught me napping 1" 8q Cupid is King On Evelyn's Hat Since I am a man I can't describe The little details of fluff. The plumes and wings of the feathered tribe. The ruchings of filmy stuff. The bows and tucks of ribbon and lace. The crown, whether peaked or flat. The everything that has found a place On Evelyn's new spring hat. I merely infer there are marigolds. And daisies, and pinks, and such. Chiffon so dainty the folds on folds Might crumble beneath one's touch; Perhaps an ocean of tulle whose waves On the beach of the brim that's flat Creeps up, and the stem of each violet laves On Evelyn's new spring hat. I only know what the women say: **So natural do they seem. Those flowers, one aknost on each nosegay Of morning-dew notes the gleam." This part of their praise I can swear is true. Though I've sworn quite enough thereat, A '*ten" it will cost me for all that's due On Evelyn' s new spring hat. Cupid is King A New Republic A new federation has lately been formed. It boasts of a government free. Two hearts by the tenderest passions were warmed. Which brought forth a union, you see, **For weal or for woe, through the storm and the strife'*. Was e'er nation's motto Hke this? The compact each signed for the length of a life And affixed the great seal — 'twas a kiss! The government framed to each purpose, intent. Acknowledges plainly that it Derives its just powers from willing consent Of the governed, and errs not a whit. Since clearly in weakness its greatest strength lies, A soft word's diplomacy rare. Doth dry up the tears in a pair of blue eyes. And conquer rebellion that's there. The new federation is quite a success The government gives us report. Though much now depends, I am free to confess. In its keeping aloof from a court Where right of secession the judge styles divorce. For such things have nothing to do With clinging, and billing and cooing, of course. Where love rules his nation of two! 82 Cupid is King A Winter s 'Thaw When winds that erstwhile blew so raw Are tempered by a sunshine bright. And drifted snow begins to thaw. We much bewail the slushy plight; We curse the fate that prompted us To leave the rubbers off our feet. And rail at such a sloppy muss. Till Mabel trips across the street. Our petulance at winter's mood. Our suUenness, so ill-concealed. Our vows that we' d have, if we could. Old nature's ordinance repealed. Take sudden flight when ice and snow Slips slushy 'neath her twinkling feet. And lifted skirts but hint at show As Mabel trips across the street. And what though it's inclined to last But just the briefest moment's span? Our petulant perverseness past, A sweet enchantment bids us scan The glimpse of 'broidery that shows. And, now and then, an ankle neat, A fleeting dream of silken hose, — When Mabel trips across the street. 83 Cupid is King When Grandma Danced (1824) The trumpets blared and rolled the drum. The nation's honored guest had come. Bells clanged whose tongues had long been dumb. Gay horses pranced. No red coat tory held dissent. The land approved to all intent. For James Monroe was President — And Grandma danced. The old colonial hall was bright. The candles twinkled left and right. And rich brocades bewitched the sight Of those who glanced Where gay cotillion figures formed. Where love grown chill with war was warmed. And hearts instead of forts were stormed — When Grandma danced. With all the homage grace could lend. Where bravery, beauty, culture blend. They welcomed him, our loyal friend. For peace enhanced The honors won on battle-plain; They toasted freedom's happy reign. When Lafayette came back again And Grandma danced. 84 Cupid is King Brave minute men were seen to flush More than if in the onward rush Of battle, while with boyish blush Each stood entranced: Staid veterans from the Brandywine Passed compliments adown the line. And *