And read the mirror's verdict. Ah, the pain

Is gnawing like a canker at my breast,

Is beating like a hammer in my brain;

I must speak out or break beneath the strain.

I'm going bald on top. O cruel reef

Where youthful hopes lie wrecked! O dismal lane

Whose end is but the sere and yellow leaf!

ENVOI.

Prince (Mr. Punch)! on Armageddon's plain

My love-locks fell a prey to Time, the thief.