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POEMS AND LYRICS.
XXI.
—You cite exceptions, madam, that are sad,
But come in the red struggle of our growth
Alas, that I should have to say it! bad
Is two-sexed upon earth: this which you do
Shows animal impatience, mental sloth:
Man monstrous, pining seraphs you!
XXII.
—I fain would ask your friend . . . but I will ask
You, sir, how if in place of numbers vague,
Your sad exceptions were to break that mask
They wear for your cool mind historically,
And blaze like black lists of a present plague?
But in that light behold them we.
