AS some bland soul, to whom a debtor says

“I’ll now repay the amount I owe to you,” In inward gladness feigns forgetfulness That such a payment ever was his due

(His long thought notwithstanding), so did I At our last meeting waive your proffered kiss With quick divergent talk of scenery nigh, By such suspension to enhance my bliss.

And as his looks in consternation fall When, gathering that the debt is lightly deemed, The debtor makes as not to pay at all, So faltered I, when your intention seemed

Converted by my false uneagerness To putting off for ever the caress.

W. P. V., 1865–67.