19 FEBRUARY 1927, Page 14

Overheard in Arcady

I LOVE, but could not wed thee, Since wed, I could not love thee, And though they laugh to prove me Doubt's fool—I will not wed thee.

I have, but dare not hold thee, Lest holding so, I lose thee.

There's naught thou would'st refuse mei And yet, I dare not hold thee.

Love, ask me not, to prove me ; For, fearing I might lose thee, I could not then refuse thee, And wed, I could not love thee.

GWEN CLEAN