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AME Richesse stood by Beauty’s side,

Haughty of mien, and puffed with pride,

Rude arrogance and self-esteem.

Right rash and hardy should I deem

The man who hindrance dared to throw

Across her path, for well doth know

Richesse her foes to spoil and spill,

But honours those who do her will.

Neither to-day nor yesterday

’Twas learned that rich folk, have their way,

And oftentimes misuse their power

To raise men up in one short hour

To great estate, or make them fall

To misery dire. Both great and small

To Dame Richesse full deference give,

For ‘neath her rule men love to live,

And serving her will gladly die,

Proud to have worn her livery;

Yet not because they hold her dear,

And love her, but for craven fear.

Mockers and flatterers much abound

Within her courts, and there are found

Traitors and envious folk who try

To do those good men injury