Rogues

Rogues written by William Henry Davies

From "Secrets", 1924

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The nearer unto Nature's heart I moved,
In those sweet days of old, the more I loved:
The nearer to the heart of man I move,
As days and weeks go by, the less I love;
Where can I find a true and honest mind?
Men rob me, and my Love is still unkind.

You cruel rogues, that come this day to borrow
A sum that's promised but not paid to-morrow;
That take like wasps the fruit that's on its way
Towards my mouth, and never fear my nay -
Go to that girl and state your happy case,
That you can see more kindness in my face.

Tell her that though I kiss so wild and oft
Her flesh that's like a baby's, white and soft,
Yet kind consideration, at the back,
Can fear a kiss will bruise and turn it black:
Go to her, rogues, and show her all the signs
Where in my face a foolish angel shines.

This work is in the public domain in countries where the copyright term is the author's life plus 70 years or less.