Classic Poem

(Rondel)

When a pretty maiden passes
By the window down the street,
Cards and billiards lose their sweet;
Conversation on old brasses
Languishes; up go the glasses —
" Nice complexion! " " Dainty feet! "
When a pretty maiden passes
By the window down the street.

Smith forgets the " toiling masses, "
Robinson the fall in wheat;
All the club is indiscreet.
Ah! the wisest men are asses
When a pretty maiden passes.