Poetry Archives

They forced him to a seat, and held him there,
Despite his anger, while the hideous joke
Was tossed from hand to hand.  Franz poured with care
A brimming glass of whiskey.  “Here, we’ve broke
Into a virgin barrel for you, drink!
Tut!  Tut!  Just hear him!  Married!  Who, and when?
Married, and out on business.  Clever Spark!
Which lie’s the likeliest?  Come, Max, do think.”
Swollen with fury, struggling with these men,
Max cursed hilarity which must needs have a mark.