(After reading the biography of Lord Byron)

I don’t like ceremonies, madam:
They steal my precious time.
All men are rough since days of Adam,
And women are sublime.

I sense in you unuttered passion
That waits, like sparkling wine.
In most frank and honest fashion
I dare you: be mine.

I will be ardent, I will care,
I’ll make your life complete.
And then I’ll finish the affair,
Just as I started it.

You’ll call me cruel, reckless, vicious,
You’ll think yourself ill-used,
But even thus, the fruit’s delicious:
You want to be seduced.

All for a glimpse of true desire,
All for the touch of flame.
Then shameful gossip you’ll inspire
And stain your honored name.

You’ll buy a paradise vacation
At an expensive price
Of badly damaged reputation,
But hear my advice:

Your husband’s dull, your day is boring,
Your night is all but sweet.
Inside my…