Classic Poem

When she, a maiden slim,
Suffered his yoke and bondage, on she took
Smooth matron's ways and dalliance forsook
With gossip-girls in girls' shy eagerness
To wonder at men's deeds; and with the dress
Of wife attuned her heart in graver mood
To bear the sober fruits of Motherhood.
A-many children him in time she bore,
So many treasure-houses for her store
Of love, which ever waxed as each new voice
Wailing for succor made her heart rejoice
That she was almoner.