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BALAUSTION'S ADVENTURE.
Had heart to save whom he begot,—not they,The white-haired wretches! only thou it was,I' the bloom of youth, didst save him and so die!Might it be mine to chance on such a mateAnd partner! For there's penury in lifeOf such allowance: were she mine at least,So wonderful a wife, assuredlyShe would companion me throughout my daysAnd never once bring sorrow!"A great voice—"My hosts here!"Oh, the thrill that ran through us!Never was aught so good and opportuneAs that great interrupting voice! For see!Here maundered this dispirited old ageBefore the palace; whence a something creptWhich told us well enough without a wordWhat was a-doing inside,—every touch
