1.
Once I thought each kiss a woman
Gives us, or receives instead,
By some influence superhuman
Was from old predestinèd.
I both took and gave back willing
Kisses then as earnestly
As if I were but fulfilling
Actions of necessity.
Kisses are superfluous,—this I
Have discover’d on life’s stage,
And with small concern now kiss I,
Heedless of the surplusage.