"Young fellow, listen to a friend: <br />Beware of wedlock - 'tis a gamble, <br />It's MAN who holds the losing end <br />In every matrimonial scramble." <br /> <br />"Young lady, marriage mostly is <br />A cruel cross of hope's concealing. <br />A rarity is wedded bliss <br />And WOMAN gets the dirty dealing." <br /> <br />. . . Such my advice to man and maid, <br />But though they harken few will take it. <br />The parson plies his merry trade <br />The marriage seems much what you make it. <br /> <br />If Pa or Ma had counsel sought <br />Of me whose locks today are hoary, <br />And feared to tie the nuptial knot - <br />Would I be here to tell the story? <br /> <br />Nay, lad and lass, don't flout romance, <br />Nor heed this cynical old sinner; <br />Like bold Columbus take a chance, <br />And may your number be a winner. <br /> <br />Far be it from me to advise, <br />But in the marital relation <br />The safest bet is Compromise <br />And Mutual Consideration.<br /><br />Robert William Service<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-lottery/
