Page:Halleck.djvu/227

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A FRAGMENT.

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His shop is a grocer’s—a snug, genteel place,
Near the corner of Oak Street and Pearl;
He can dress, dance, and bow to the ladies with grace,
And ties his cravat with a curl.

He’s asked to all parties—north, south, east, and west,
That take place between Chatham and Cherry;
And when he’s been absent, full oft has the “best
Society” ceased to be merry.

And nothing has darkened a sky so serene,
Nor disordered his beauship’s Elysium,
Till this season among our élite there has been
What is called by the clergy “a schism.”

’Tis all about eating and drinking—one set
Gives sponge-cake, a few “kisses” or so,
And is cooled after dancing with classic sherbet,
“Sublimed” (see Lord Byron) “with snow.”