Barrett and Browning Runaway Lovers

RUNAWAY LOVERS Sat Ba Barret restless in her room Drinking death in dark and gloom Tragedy seemed her last name Despite the books that were her fame Letters reached her by the score But one kissed paper touched her core Robert Browning made her wild Exuberance flared—she was a child A woman forty –heart on fire Now she had but one desire A partner for her life she sought Her father raged—her brothers fought And so she, in the dead of night Began a journey—love’s mad flight They wed with maid and cousin there And off they sailed like on a dare Tossed her frail and lifelong curse Dared the gods to do their worst She won the man and mated prize Found her reflection in his eyes First night was a burst of tears Maid was sent to soothe her fears Downstairs help was all a twitter Certain Ba was dry and bitter Old maid and a cripple lass With intellect none could surpass Now she’s wed and this first night What would happen—tup or fight? Footmen bet on Browning luck— Old maids were like sitting ducks But when they saw dawn faces glow Even shallow hearts did throw A prayer that heaven smile on them Such naked love sang out ‘Amen’.