My spirit, in the doorway's pause,

Fluttered with fancies in my breast;

Obsequious to all decent laws,

I felt exceedingly distressed.

I knew it rude to enter there

With Mrs. V. in such a state;

And, 'neath a magisterial air,

Felt actually indelicate.

I knew the nurse began to grin;

I turned to greet my Love. Said she—