The Widow in the Bye Street

by John Masefield

And those who do not know are so unkind.

But you'll be by me, Jimmy, in the strife,

I love you though I cannot be your wife;

And now be off, before the whistle goes,

Or else you'll lose your quarter, goodness knows.'

'When can I see you, Anna? Tell me, dear.

To-night? To-morrow? Shall I come to-night?

'Jimmy, my friend, I cannot have you here;

But when I come to town perhaps we might.

Dear, you must go; no kissing; you can write,