Page:Famous Single Poems (1924).djvu/207

 But for which the ladies themselves manifested Such particular interest, that they invested Their own proper persons in layers and rows Of muslins, embroideries, worked underclothes, Gloves, handkerchiefs, scarfs, and such trifles as those; Then, wrapped in great shawls, like Circassian beauties, Gave good-by to the ship, and go-by to the duties. Her relations at home all marveled, no doubt Miss Flora had grown so enormously stout
 * For an actual belle and a possible bride;

But the miracle ceased when she turned inside out,
 * And the truth came to light, and the dry-goods beside,

Which, in spite of collector and custom-house sentry, Had entered the port without any entry.

And yet, though scarce three months have passed since the day This merchandise went, on twelve carts, up Broadway, This same Miss McFlimsey, of Madison Square, The last time we met was in utter despair, Because she had nothing whatever to wear!