Meeting

Hidden by old age awhile

In masker's cloak and hood,

Each hating what the other loved,

Face to face we stood:

"That I have met with such," said he,

"Bodes me little good."

"Let others boast their fill," said I,

"But never dare to boast

That such as I had such a man

For lover in the past;

Say that of living men I hate

Such a man the most."

"A loony'd boast of such a love,"

He in his rage declared:

But such as he for such as me --

Could we both discard

This beggarly habiliment --

Had found a sweeter word.