AFTER HERRICK
Reading edition
SONG
GATHER Kittens while you may, Time brings only Sorrow; And the Kittens of To-day Will be Old Cats To-morrow. Oliver Herford.
TO JULIA UNDER LOCK AND KEY
(A form of betrothal gift in America is an anklet secured by a padlock, of which the other party keeps the key)
WHEN like a bud my Julia blows In lattice-work of silken hose, Pleasant I deem it is to note How, 'neath the nimble petticoat, Above her fairy shoe is set The circumvolving zonulet. And soothly for the lover's ear A perfect bliss it is to hear About her limb so lithe and lank My Julia's ankle-bangle clank. Not rudely tight, for 'twere a sin To corrugate her dainty skin; Nor yet so large that it might fare Over her foot at unaware; But fashioned nicely with a view To let her airy stocking through: So as, when Julia goes to bed, Of all her gear disburdenèd, This ring at least she shall not doff Because she cannot take it off. And since thereof I hold the key, She may not taste of liberty, Not though she suffer from the gout, Unless I choose to let her out. Owen Seaman.