The Orphanage

      When, ere the tangled web is reft,
           The  kid-gloved  villain  scowls  and
             sneers,
      And hapless innocence is left
           With no assets save sighs and tears,

      'Tis then, just then, that in there stalks
           The hero, watchful of her needs;
      He talks, Great heavens how he talks!
           But we forgive him, for his deeds.

      Life is the drama here to-day
           And Death the villain of the plot.
      It is a realistic play.
           Shall it end well or shall it not?

      The hero?   Oh, the hero's part
           Is vacant — to be played by you.
      Then act it well! An orphan's heart
           May beat the lighter if you do.