Madam Life's a piece in bloom

Madam Life's a piece in bloomDeath goes dogging everywhere:She 's the tenant of the room,He's the ruffian on the stair.

You shall see her as a friend,You shall bilk him once and twice;But he'll trap you in the end,And he'll stick you for her price.

With his kneebones at your chest,And his knuckles in your throat,You would reason—plead—protest!Clutching at her petticoat;

But she's heard it all before,Well she knows you 've had your fun,Gingerly she gains the door,And your little job is done.

1877