Chapter II

Read the lengthy household bills--
Awful bills!
Glancing at their totals grim, the brain with horror thrills.
From the East and from the West
How they echo one request:
“A remittance must be sent
Without delay.”
Food and coals and clothes and rent--
It is hideous to reflect on what is meant
By Quarter Day.
And, enthroned amidst your cares,
Impecuniosity impertinently stares.
How it chills!
How it kills
All the future, how it fills
With the haunting fear of ills,
Does that pressing and distressing
File of bills, bills, bills--
Those offensive, comprehensive household bills!