Destroying that fine work of Art, Nature's Scheme.

Why, I never talk scandal, you goose, and you know it;

It's no fascination whatever to me.

I could tell some, of course, for we county folk grow it

Like so many apples and pears on a tree.

I repeat, I detest such a thing beyond measure.

I'm not like dear MAUD, who my husband declares

Was invented and made to exist on the pleasure

Of dragging to light other people's affairs.

She would forward you scandalous tales by the dozen—