21 MARCH 1970, Page 34

AFTERTHOUGHT

Literary life

E.M.S.

This is the cautionary tale Of poor misguided Henri Beyle Who weathered many a major scandale Under the nom de plume of Stendhal.

He kept his trousers in their places Without a belt, by means of braces, Elastic covered, where reposed Five painted nudes succinctly posed.* Whene'er his Muse was in retreat A thumb behind the elastic pleat Could summon up such fancies rare His Muse felt that she must be there.

And flew to give him that support Which was her duty; for, she thought, Like many another gifted gent Poor Henri might be impotent.t *According,t.a.Richasd Aldington, tHe was too, - _