The Ts‘eang Yéw Ts‘ze

As grows on wall the tribulus,
And ’gainst the brush retains its hold ;
So let what’s in the harem done
By us without remain untold.
What must be told would tongue defile
With things unfit for speech, and vile.

As grows on wall the tribulus,
Which vainly to remove we try ;
So let what’s in- the harem done
By us without unspoken le.
If on details we condescend,
The narrative would have no end.

As grows on wall the tribulus,
And cannot in the sheaf be tied ;
So let what’s in the harem done
By us without untouched abide.
If truth were in the tale laid bare,
How foul a scene were painted there !