University of Virginia Library


95

A PARTERRE OF KINGS

With diamonds the boxes flashed and blazed:
Bejewelled orders shone in the parterre.
It was a ceremonial night: there were
So many gems there that the claque amazed
Forgot to cheer, and e'en the gas was dazed,
So many costly modish splendours there
That the cowed gallery people gasped for air
The while perspiringly they gazed and praised.
The portly little diva, bribed with gold
Enough to make twelve Miltons roll in wealth,
Sang, somewhat out of voice, her refrain old.
Six wreaths were flung her—th' impresario's part,—
Four Grand Dukes went behind the scenes by stealth,
And nothing lacked that night save only Art!