Ephemera (Buck)/The Stranger

by Mitchell Starrett Buck

THE STRANGER

Thou seekest pleasure, stranger? Lo, I am queen of pleasure; I am ruler of all delights. With one glance of mine eyes, I can sway thee like the stricken palm.

If thou hast sorrow, I can drive it from thee; if thou art happy, I can double thine ecstasy. I can make thee long for death. . . . Girl, bring wine and cakes—quickly!

This is my house. Thou seest—I have many friends. I am rich; but I think nothing of money. I love where it pleases me, and I am pleased with thee. Give thy cloak to the slave. . . . Pardon, thou hast dropped thy purse. . . .