A friend sends her perfumed carriage <br />And high-bred horses to fetch me. <br />I decline the invitation of <br />My old poetry and wine companion. <br /> <br />I remember the happy days in the lost capital. <br />We took our ease in the woman's quarters. <br />The Feast of Lanterns was elaborately celebrated - <br />Folded pendants, emerald hairpins, brocaded girdles, <br />New sashes - we competed <br />To see who was most smartly dressed. <br />Now I am withering away, <br />Wind-blown hair, frost temples. <br />I prefer to stay beyond the curtains, <br />And listen to talk and laughter <br />I can no longer share.<br /><br />Li Ching Chao<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/a-friend-sends-her-perfumed-carriage/
