The Oldest Show on Earth and the Last Hanging,

'The Murder in the Red Barn,' with real blood,

The rifles crack, the Sally shy-sticks thud.

Anna walked slowly homewards with her prey,

Holding old tottering mother's weight upon her,

And pouring in sweet poison on the way

Of 'Such a pleasure, ma'am, and such an honour,'

And 'One's so safe with such a son to con her

Through all the noises and through all the press,

Boys daredn't squirt tormenters on her dress.'