In Ambush
Half hidden in the holly’s shade,
Dark with the weight of snow o’erlaid,
I see you plainly!
What plot are you two hatching now,
Lurking beneath the sheltering bough?
You’re hiding vainly!
But never mind—with eyes downcast,
I’ll let you think you have not passed
Before my vision.
“Let’s snowball him! ’twill be such fun!”
The words are whispered low by one,
In soft derision.
Ho! ho! so that’s your little plot!
You may be sure that I shall not
Attempt to foil it!
Besides, I can’t for very shame
Turn tail and run; and such a game,
’Twere sin to spoil it!
A warning shot,—it whizzes past!
Another,—fairly hit at last!
Nice warm work this is!
Well, fire away! Your stock runs low;
Reward must come at length, you know,—
Returns of kisses!
Bravo! I’ve caught you both at length!
In vain resist with all your strength,
And blushing faces!
Love’s toll, you know, ’s a warmer thing
Than making snowballs just to fling
From secret places!