XVII.

Sometimes, indeed, like soldiers off parade,

They break their ranks and gladly leave the drill;

But then the roll-call draws them back afraid,

And they must be or seem what they were: still

Doubtless it is a brilliant masquerade:

But when of the first sight you have had your fill,

It palls—at least it did so upon me,

This paradise of Pleasure and Ennui.

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