The Retort

Old Birch, who taught the village school, Wedded a maid of homespun habit; He was as stubborn as a mule, And she as playful as a rabbit. Poor Kate had scarce become a wife Before her husband sought to make her The pink of country polished life, And prim and formal as a Quaker. One day the tutor went abroad, And simple Katie sadly missed him, When he returned, behind her lord She shyly stole, and fondly kissed him. The husband’s anger rose, and red And white his face alternate grew: “Less freedom, ma’am!” Kate sighed and said, “O, dear! I didn’t know ’t was you!”

Collection: 
English
George Pope Morris
Sub Title: 
VIII. Wedded Love

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