Erudition, tired after work,

Flirts with plotting vanities that lurk

Poutingly upon the edge of thought.

Languages and legends men have caught

Practice an irrelevant parade

With emotions morbidly arrayed.”

Torban gave the blunt wealth of his smile.

“We, in Mars, have but one tongue whose guile

Does not yield to little, vain designs.

Feelings are fermented thoughts whose wines