The Book of Lies

KE@AAH A CONSTANCY I was discussing oysters with a crony: GOD sent to me the angels DIN and DONI. «A man of spunk,” they urged, ‘‘ would hardly choose To breakfast every day chez Lapérouse.”’ “No!” I replied, ‘She would not do so, BUT Think of his woe if Lapérouse were shut! ‘*T eat these oysters and I drink this wine Solely to drown this misery of mine. ‘*Vet the last height of consolation’s cold: Its pinnacle is—not to be consoled! ‘¢And though I sleep with Jane and Eleanor I feel no better than I did before, ** And Julian only fixes in my mind Even before feels better than behind. ‘*You are Mercurial spirits—be so kind As to enable me to raise the wind. ‘“‘Put me in LAYLAH’S arms again: the Accurst, Leaving me that, elsechow may do his worst.” DONI and DIN, perceiving me inspired, Conceived their task was finished : they retired. I turned upon my friend, and, breaking bounds, Borrowed a trifle of two hundred pounds. 81 f