LOYAL
The words remind me. Let me say
A Fable that I heard to-day.
Have I permission?
BOTH _(with enthusiasm)_
Monsieur, pray!
M. LOYAL
"Myrtilla (lest a scandal rise
The lady's name I thus disguise),
Dying of ennui, once decided--
Much on resource herself she prided--
To choose a hat. Forthwith she flies
On that momentous enterprise.
Whether to Petit or Logros,
I know not: only this I know;--
Headdresses then, of any fashion,
Bore names of quality, or passion.
Myrtilla tried them, almost all:
'Prudence,' she felt, was somewhat small;
'Retirement' seemed the eyes to hide;
'Content,' at once, she cast aside.
'Simplicity,'--'twas out of place;
'Devotion' for an older face;
Briefly, selection smaller grew,
'Vexatious! odious!'--none would do!
Then, on a sudden, she espied
One that she thought she had not tried:
Becoming, rather,--'edged with green,'--
Roses in yellow, thorns between.
'Quick! Bring me that!' 'Tis brought. 'Complete,
Superb, enchanting, tasteful, neat,'
In all the tones. 'And this you call--?'
'"Ill-Nature," Madame. It fits all.'"
HORTENSE
A thousand thanks! So naively turned!
ARMANDE
So useful too ... to those concerned!
'Tis yours?
M.
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