A Model for the Laureate

ON thrones from China to PeruAll sorts of kings have satThat men and women of all sortsProclaimed both good and great;And what's the odds if such as theseFor reason of the StateShould keep their lovers waiting,Keep their lovers waiting.

Some boast of beggar-kings and kingsOf rascals black and whiteThat rule because a strong right armPuts all men in a fright,And drunk or sober live at easeWhere none gainsay their right,And keep their lovers waiting,Keep their lovers waiting.

The Muse is mute when public menApplaud a modern throne:Those cheers that can be bought or sold,That office fools have run,That waxen seal, that signature.For things like these what decent manWould keep his lover waiting,Keep his lover waiting?