#Grant Cotter

[justinewt]

Pugna Inter Fratres - THOSE ABOUT TO DIE REWRITE Chapter Five

[THOSE ABOUT TO DIE MASTERLIST]

Previous Chapter / Next Chapter (08/30/2024)

Summary: Being reunited with her brothers was the best gift Aldea could have ever asked for. Some tensions here and there rose amongst them after things didn't turn the way they expected, especially between Elia and Fonsoa. They disagreed over the way to handle things after something happened to their horses and Andria and Aldea were kind of in the middle of it, but the latter would soon move on from that after that - though momentarily - after the arrival of two numidian women in her home.

Words: 6.9k

Warnings: title means "fight between brothers" // Those about to die spoilers (episode 2 "Trust None"), fluff

The moon was higher in the sky when they reached Aldea’s house. No one was standing outside the front door. Tenax must have dismissed Dacia and Noro already. She and Scorpus climbed a flight of stairs, his toga slightly slipping off his head as he began pounding on the door. Aldea joined her hand at her waist, looking around, waiting for Tenax to come open the door and they finally heard the lock slide open on the other side. They leaned back in surprise when they came to face with Tenax brandishing a butcher knife. He realized it was just Scorpus and Aldea and he lowered the blade, stepping away from the door.

“By the Gods. What are you doing?” The charioteer walked in, looking at his friend as the latter put away the knife. Aldea followed Scorpus inside. The door creaked as she pushed it behind her, and she quickly went in the bedroom to put her cloak away and combed through her hair with her fingers, proceeding to braid them for the night as she glanced at the two men.

“What do you want?” Scorpus pulled out something to show him and she heard a thud as he placed it on the table. Tenax shrugged. “What’s this?”

“One cotter pin, cut halfway through. My racing partner is dead, and I would be if I hadn’t switched rigs.” Tenax walked towards him, picking up the cotter pin to take a closer look. “Was this one of your fixes? Scorpus loses, you collect big. I break a few bones or my neck to make it look real.”

He frowned, putting down the pin, “No, of course it’s not. I told you; I have much bigger plans for the both of us than a few more rigged races.”

“Then find out who sabotaged my rig and kill them.” Tenax acquiesced, letting out a quiet sigh. Aldea slowly approached them upon hearing Scorpus pick up something else from the table, noting how it apparently looked a lot like his horse Incitatus with a chuckle. She saw her husband took a little gold horse figurine from the driver’s hands and dismissing him, telling him to take his winnings on his way out. “Aldea.” He gave her a nod and as he put one foot on the landing, he turned towards Tenax, pointing at him. “Don’t take me for granted.”

“I don’t.” He replied with a tight smile before locking the door and turning to Aldea, shooting up his eyebrows, spreading his arms open in despondence, urging her to explain herself and she knew he wanted to know where she had been and why she was coming home so late. And yet, she still asked a stupid question as if she hadn’t understood. She didn’t think before speaking. “Well?”

“What?”

“Where have you been?”

“I told you. My brothers are in Rome, so Nica took me to them. We attended the race, and I spoke with them before Scorpus offered to walk me home.” She got closer to him and slid her fingers over the collar of his tunic, locking eyes with him. There was a bright smile stretching her lips. “I never thought I’d see them again, and they’re here, in Rome. I can see them everyday now.”

“That’s great, Aldea. I just want to make sure that you’re safe.” He placed a gentle hand on her stomach, and she put her hand on top.

“I am as safe with my brothers as with Dacia and Noro. And Gavros and Scorpus were there too. I'm alway well surrounded.” Their faces had gotten close to the point of being mere inches apart, the tip of their noses rubbed together. They shared a tender kiss, and she went to bed while he left the apartment, having to take care of Scorpus’ sabotaged-rig problem. She slept soundly that night, with no nightmare, dreaming of her youth. She was around 6, compelling a then 8-year-old Fonsoa to play mom and dad with toddler Elia. He had always been such a sweet, angel-looking boy, even more so then with his big eyes, staring at her and following her and Fonsoa everywhere. In the early years of her brother’s life, it was more of an innocent game for her, but she realized over time that ever since he was born, even though she was only 4 then, she had always taken her role very seriously and loved taking care of him. There were only two things she truly loved doing, caring for her baby brother and being with their horses. She was happy with living this life forever.

The memory she relieved in her dream changed, it was a few years later, Elia and she were laughing bubbly, rolling in the tall grass to go down the hill and she woke up. She felt as though she was on cloud nine as she took her time to get out bed and put on her stola and cloak. Those memories put her in a state of absolute peace of mind. She was so used to Tenax being gone the whole night that she didn’t even notice he still wasn’t home, and she left for the Circus Maximus, to meet with her brothers at the stable. It wasn’t the afternoon yet, she would have some more time to spend with the three of them before they had to show the horses to Scorpus later on, and she would be with them then too. She didn’t have to work today as there wasn’t any races or fights, and in any case, if she didn’t want to work one day, Tenax wouldn’t actually care. He only let her work because she wanted to keep herself busy. If she felt like spending the day at home or at the bath or the theatre, she could.

She arrived at the Circus during hora undecimal, about half an hour before noon and they walked together to Tenax’s tavern to eat together. They got quite a few glances as they exchanged in Spanish the whole time, speaking at a fast pace too, as they asked their sister about her life in Rome, how she came to know Tenax – whom they still had yet to meet – and she told them the whole story. She told them how she followed this young sailor she thought she was in love with and got stuck on a merchant’s ship and was sold as a slave upon arriving in Rome, bought by Tenax and made a freedwoman a couple months later. She said the merchant never returned to Rome, keeping it to herself that Tenax had the later killed because of what he had done to Aldea. They would get scared for her, knowing Tenax’s doing, and she would have to reveal details she wanted to keep secret. It wouldn’t do anyone any good to know that she was forced to have intercourse by and with the merchant for over a week and that he broke her collarbone because she tried to fight back. She wasn’t hiding the latter under a cloak for nothing.

“You were sold as a slave?” Elia reacted instantly when Aldea said it, raising his eyebrow in a mix of utter shock, worry and anger.

“It’s okay now, I’m free. Tenax lets me work and do basically anything I want. He only asks me to be careful where I go. Rome can be dangerous.” She took a sip of her wine, looking down at her plate. “But he has over a dozen men working for him, and I know that he asked them to keep an eye out for me so I’m safe anywhere I go.”

“He seems to be a good husband.” Andria noted while Elia squinted his eyes, slightly frowning. He still doubted that whoever was her husband was a good enough husband for his sister and it made her smile amusedly. She gave her older brother a nod. Tenax proved to be a good husband indeed. She went on to tell them about their time as a married couple and it was enough for Fonsoa and Andria to hear that she was happy and well treated, or they wouldn’t have let her go back to Tenax, maybe even dragging her back home to Baetica if she needed to be saved from her marriage, but there was no need, and they could see that. Even Elia understood she was happy in her relationship. And now she had her family with her. It felt as though life was smiling on her once again. Ever since she became her own woman again at the end of summer 75 CE, four years ago, almost only good things happened to her; she eventually got into a relationship with Tenax, they got married and now she was expecting a child, and she was reunited with her brothers. She let it slip, during the conversation, that she was pregnant and the shock on Elia's face, his eyebrows raised as high as possible and his wide eyes, made her burst out laughing. He let his cutlery fall on the table, clattering against the wood.

“What— estás realmente embarazada?” He exclaimed, asking her if she was actually pregnant, grabbing her arm. Fonsoa and Andria chuckled, proceeding to congratulate their sister. Fonsoa, sat next to her, giving her a broad, proud smile, putting his hand on her back.

“Your child will be blessed to have you as a mother.”

“You were a natural.” Andria added, a soft smile on his face.

“You see, Elia, we’ll become uncles. You need to grow up.” He teased him, stretching his arm behind Aldea to push his brother’s shoulder with a chuckle. Elia dodged his hand, leaning to the side and let out a groan, annoyed to het pushed around by his brother. Fonsoa gently squeezed Aldea’s shoulder, insisting that she will be a great mother, and they finished their meal. A few minutes later, during hora quartadecima, a couple hours after they started eating, they met with Gavros at the Blue faction’s stable and prepped the horses for the try out on the tracks. They geared up four of their dozen Andalusians, attaching them to a rig and Andria warmed them up, making them run for a round in the arena. Fonsoa leaned against the door, his arms crossed while Elia, his hands on his hips, was growing impatient and aggravated by Scorpus’ delay. He still wasn’t there, and they had been waiting for what felt like an eternity. Aldea looked at the sun, up in the sky, indicating it must have been hora sedecim, and if she wasn’t home by the next hour, she thought that Tenax was going to wonder what she was doing out there that was making her so busy that she was missing dinner.

“Where is he?” Having to wait so much made Elia snappy. Gavros put his hand on his shoulder, assuring the driver was coming and he did a few seconds later. Scorpus appeared behind them as the chariot was approaching and Andria brought the horses to a halt.

“They’re small, your Andalusians.” He walked past Andria and stepped on the rig.

“It is not their size that makes horses fast. And no whip. They run better without it.” Scorpus still picked up his whip and Elia glared at him as the charioteer drove away. The horses went gradually faster and within seconds they were full on galloping. They saw Scorpus give a few snaps with the whip but eventually putting it away and instead only snapping the reins, his dark curls blown in the wind. Elia’s angry face gave way to a cheerful smile.

“They’re fast.” Gavros noted. After a full drive around the spina, Scorpus slowed down the horses and got off the rig, letting out a sigh of relief. He was clearly more than satisfied with the beasts and immidietaly made an offer to the brothers.

“Twenty thousand serteces for the ten. But… the three of you stay on as stable hands to get the most out of them.” Elia’s smile faded after getting excited at the price he had proposed. While Fonsoa and Andria agreed to it, he didn’t seem that excited anymore and looked upset.

“We agreed to go back!” Aldea’s head twitched. She didn’t know they were supposed to go home. They hadn’t told her yet.

“Elia. Look around. Do you really want to go back?” Andria asked.

“Yes!”

“We’re in Circus Maximus, and this is Scorpus, he’s trying to buy your horses and hire us. And we got out sister back.” Fonsoa stepped towards his brother. Aldea held her arms, crossed over her chest and kind of looked around, seeing Fimbria watching them in the distance. He crossed her gaze as he was leaving and she squinted her eyes, wondering why he had been staring at them. Elia kept on arguin, insisting Scorpus wanted to trap them in Rome, which he called “a sewer of a city” and the high price offered to them for their horses didn’t seem to make him budge.

“I will take the money, but we agreed to come here, sell the horses, find our sister and go back! We found Aldea, we can go back.” She bit her lips, listening to him. She would have gone back with them in a heartbeat if she hadn’t met and fallen in love with Tenax, and she was married now, it wouldn’t feel right to simply ditch him after years together.

“We could really be someone here. Make a name for ourselves.” Andria tried to convince him to change his mind. Elia shook his head, briskly licking his lips. “Horses, as many as you want.”

“I have all the horses I want, back in Baetica.”

“Boys. Scorpus is waiting.” He rose his voice, drawing attention to him. Andria gave him a nod, briefly turning back to his brothers, proposing to vote on the matter. Fonsoa was in, of course but Elia, unable to stay put, restless, refused to vote and walked away, nudging Fonsoa as he left. The latter called out his name and took a few steps after him but stopped himself and turned back to Andria.

“I’ll go talk to him.” Fonsoa softly grabbed his sister’s arm.

“He’ll be fine. He’ll come around.”

“We have a deal.” Andria then declared to Scorpus. The latter extended his hand towards him.

“The little shit stays as well, yes?” Andria acquiesced, giving his hand a firm shake. As he was leaving, he looked over his shoulder at Aldea. He was going to see Tenax at their home and waited for her to decide whether she was coming with him. Fonsoa comfortingly rubbed her back, reassuring her about Elia. She gave her brothers a hug and walked back to the Suburra with Scorpus. He jumped up the stairs and pushed the front door open. It had been left unlocked and he directly went inside. Aldea closed the door behind them. He had basically run down the street and was out of breath.

“I have just driven… the fastest horses in my life.” Tenax glanced over at them, sitting in the kitchen at the dinner table while Claudia served him something to drink. He tilted his head, looking at Aldea as she made her way to the table and sat across from her husband before the plate set up for her. Claudia gave her some food.

“Are you sure?” Scorpus leaned on the table and sighed.

“They’re the horses of Aldea’s brothers… they fly with the wings of Pegasus. So, I bought them. Well, with your money.”

“So you’re in?”

“Of course, I’m in.” Aldea followed him with her eyes, not really knowing what they were talking about as Scorpus walked behind her and grabbed a piece of bread from a bowl. Tenax looked aside, leaning his elbow on the table, bringing his hand to his face, thoughtful. Scorpus eventually left, leaving the couple together to finish eating.

“You were with your brothers?”

“Yes. I spent the day with them. I’ll go see if they’re at their place after. I need to check on Elia. He wasn’t too happy about having to stay in Rome.”

“Elia, that’s your…”

“My little brother. I hope he’ll come around… I’ll try to convince him to stay. He doesn’t like Rome, to say the least.” She sighed through her nose, chewing on her food. Tenax didn’t say much else on the matter of her brother being unhappy in the city. She knew he didn’t want her to leave, but he loved her and no matter how reluctant he would be, he would let her go if she chose to go back, but put down her fork and held his hand, hopefully letting him know she wasn’t planning on leaving. She was set on convincing her brother to stay. She wasn’t about to let go of the boy she raised and watched grow into the handsome young man he was today. “What were you talking about, with Scorpus?”

“Come. I have something to show you.” He stood up, wrapping his fingers around her hand and slightly pulling her towards him. She got up in turn and he led her to the bedroom. After pressing on one of the tiles on the wall, he pushed the hidden door open with his shoulder and briefly let go of her hand to go fetch something in the criss-cross shelves at the back of the small, secret room where he kept all his most valuable items and property titles. There were hundreds of those in those shelves, but Aldea knew about all this and had known for a while so she was a little puzzled what he might have to show her. He grabbed a tube and turned to her with an excited smile.

“What’s this?” Unscrewing one of the ends, he showed a scroll inside.

“500 shares of the Blue Faction.”

“500—” She was shocked. they grabbed onto each other’s shoulder. “What? How did you get your hands on 500 shares of the Blue Faction?”

“Rufus made a round bet at yesterday's race, betting his wife's shares on Scorpus to win in the last to second round.”

“Oh, that’s why he pulled back in the middle of the race and stayed behind until the last round? I knew there was something like this going on but, well,” She chuckled in disebelief. “I didn’t know this was what was at stake. What will you do with it now?”

“I’ll sell it to the highest bidder, and with the money, Scorpus and I can start our own faction.”

“That’s great news.” She caressed his cheek, the tip of her finger brushing of his beard’s hair, and she softly pressed her lips on his. He then closed the secret door and they both left home. She headed for her brother’s place, a couple streets away, while he headed for the Esquiline Hill to go negotiate with Consul Marsus over the 500 shares. They weren’t the lead owners of the blue faction, and he knew they would want to have this advantage over the woman who he and his wife had lost the position to, Caltonia. By buying those shares, they could retrieve their position as lead owners and he was going to use this fact to get the consul to buy those shares, giving him enough money to fund his ambitions. He would still need to get approval from the Aedile Ludi, who was no other than the emperor’s youngest son, Domitian. She wasn’t too worried about it. Her husband could be cunning and had a certain way with words, he would probably get Domitian to approve a fifth faction by the time the next race came around.

Aldea went to see if her brothers could be found in the room, they were renting but the housekeeper apologizes to her and told her she hadn’t seen them come back yet. Aldea returned to her apartment and Tenax returned in the first hour of the night. She wasn’t going to wander around town, pregnant and on her own so she would wait for either of her brothers – she hoped it would be Elia – to come to her instead.

“So? How did it go?” She asked, as Tenax walked in the room. He went straight to grabbing her face and kissing her, letting her know it did go as well as hoped.

“I sold the shares to Consul Marsu, nine thousand serterces.”

“And Domitian? What did he say?” His fingers sipped into her hair, his thumb caressing her cheek.

“I piqued his curiosity. I told him he would have half ownership over the faction, in secret, and that a river of money awaits us.”

“Well, I’m sure he’ll approve your faction. He needs money. He’s been spending the empire’s fortune in every single betting tavern across town. With all the money he’d earn from this, he wouldn’t have to care about his debts anymore.”

“Yes.” He kissed her again, more strongly, as he was thrilled by the thought of finally being able to set his plan in motion and get his own faction. It would get them more money and allow him to sit next to his very own faction’s banner and be somewhat at the same level as the patricians that owned the other four. She didn’t share his ambitions, as she had no such ambitions to begin with, but she supported him in his endeavors and he needed and wanted this, to elevate himself socially, though he would probably not say it in so many words. After all he had been through at the hands of the powerful patricians of the roman empire, it felt, to me, as being a rightful revenge and she would be by his side throughout it. That was one reasons, if not the main one, as to why she couldn’t leave. It felt wrong to abandon and give up on him after the life they had built together, and all they had shared. And they were expecting a child. She couldn’t possibly deprive him of his child, and right to be a father.

She moved away from him, approaching the window as she heard quick steps outside their house. She saw the old woman who watched over Tenax’s property where her brothers were staying. The housekeeper was about to walk through the front door until Aldea called out to her, making her look up.

“You wanted to know when your brothers came home.” Aldea gave her a nod and left, after telling Tenax she wouldn’t be long. She walked to the other insula and as she entered, she could hear them argue in the distance. Because of how clear their voices sounded; she guessed their door was opened. She slowly walked up the stairs.

“Elia, how many times do I have to say it? It’s not forever. We’ll all go back together soon.” Andria tried to calm him down.

“When, exactly? A—After you’re grooms instead of stable hands? After you start driving?”

“Give it a chance. One fortnight, then decide.”

“No.” He was quick with his answer. His mind was still very much made up and he was dead set on leaving Rome. He felt betrayed and lied to, and he told them as much. “You’ve lied to me. Both of you. You never intended to go home. Did you? We said, we come here, sell our horses, find Aldea and go back home.”

“Elia…” She heard Fosnoa sigh. “We sold our horses, and found Aldea. You've been talking about finding her every hour of the day for years. We found her.”

“Yes, and I’m sure she wants to go home too.” She quietly sighed, her hand on the railing as she paused in her tracks.

“Elia, she has built a life here.” Andria said. “She’s married and happy, and she’s with child. You can’t expect her to leave it all behind? Don’t you want to stay here, be close to her?”

“You can’t say that’s not all you’ve wanted, ever since you were a child.”

“Take good care of Ferox.” Elia ignored Fonsoa, turning away from him as he finished packing his things, but he must have seen movement from the corner of his eyes because he turned his head and saw Aldea coming up the stairs. She saw him, mouthing her name and he looked down at his bag, almost shameful of the fact he was getting ready to leave.

“Elia.” She spoke softly, but he avoided looking directly at her, darting glances her way.

“You never intended to go home.” It almost sounded like an accusation. She sighed.

“I never expected I could go home one day. And I met people here, in Rome, that made me love my life here. Elia… please look at me.” She put her hand on his back, and he finally made eye contact with her.

“Do you know how much father’s missed you?” Fonsoa spoke his name, but it didn’t stop Elia from speaking. “First he lost… our mother, and then you. Do you know how much your disappearance destroyed him?”

“Elia. Enough.” Fonsoa rose his voice again, grasping his shoulder, and this time, Elia shut his mouth and went quiet, slightly flaring up his nostrils and shaking his head, freeing his shoulder from Fonsoa with an abrupt shrug. Aldea could see on his face that he felt awful for being mean to her but also that how much he felt hurt and let down by his siblings overshadowed the love he had for them, and especially for his sister.

“Please, Elia. Sleep on it. I’ll see you tomorrow.” He wouldn’t look at her and she couldn’t the hurt in her eyes before she turned on her heels and left. As she walked down the stairs, she locked eyes with Fonsoa, still standing in the middle of their room and his eyes told her he was sorry about this. She gave him a soft smile and went back to her home. Tenax opened. He had been waiting for her to go to bed. Seeing she looked down, he stared at her worriedly, caressing her cheek. She took his hand and kissed it. She just wanted to go sleep it off, hoping Elia would at least stay in Rome for the night, or even better, change his mind altogether. The day had started off well and did not end on a high note.

Tenax and Aldea woke up the next morning, got dressed, ate some breakfast quickly and then left, heading together for the Esquiline Hill, hoping to find Scorpus there. But he wasn’t home and so began a search of the neighborhood to find their friend. Aldea stayed on the other side of the street while Tenax went to check if he was in the brothel he frequented but again, he came out of there alone and shrugged, exchanging a glance with his wife. They kept looking and found him at a tailor’s shop, looking at colorful pieces of fabric. Tenax ordered the tailor to get out and he snatched the fabric away from Scorpus after he drapped himself with it and threw it back on the table at the center of the room. Aldea, her hands joined by her waist, waited right by the entrance and could hear them even though Tenax was careful to speak quietly.

“Is this what you call discreet?”

“Word will get out, once we get Domitian’s approval.

“If… we get approval. Come. He’s meeting us at the stables to look at the Andalusians.” Scorpus smirked at the news, patting his shoulder on his way out. As he walked past Aldea, he, as Scorpus does, gave her a flirty look and smile and she shook her head amusedly. Looking back at Tenax as he followed him, Aldea saw his eyes briefly widen in annoyance. They then heade towards the stables of the Circus Maximus and got there about a dozen minutes later. The Blue faction stables’ doors were opened ajar, and they were unpleasantly surprised by what they saw inside. Elia was crouched next to Ferox, Fonsoa and Andria standing nearby. In all the other stalls, the horses were lying on the straw, barely breathing and lethargic. Aldea looked at them in worry while Tenax swore through his gritted teeth.

“Gavros went to get a physician.” Elia told them.

“Why didn’t someone tell me?” They turned around upon hearing Felix’s voice behind them. The young boy came running towards them.

“Domitian, he’s here! Outside!”

Tenax sighed heavily, “As I said… Fuck!” He turned to the brothers. “All right. I’ll divert him. Aldea, I want you out of here.” She wasn’t going to argue with him. He had other other fish to fry – bigger fish. She followed him outside and walked to a piller against which she leaned, seeing him talk with Domitian from the corner of her eyes. He tried to slow him down, to give everyone in the stables, just a little more time to find a quick solution to keep up appearances. On her way out, she heard Scorpus tell everyone to close the stalls’ curtains so they would find a short-term solution. Domitian wasn’t buying whatever Tenax was telling him to keep him out of the stables and he walked inside. She saw Felix come out and Aldea approached but when Domitian turned back to left, she stepped aside, hiding behind the large door. Plebieans bowed as the emperor’s son walked past, followed by Tenax and Scorpus. Before he turned to the other two, all three had their back to her so she slipped inside to go to her brothers. Fonsoa held out his arm, placing his hand on her back, drawing her towards him. Gavros arrived with thr physician and the man with the white beard knelt near the horse, holding a small flame to his eye to take a closer look.

“Augendus, the best there is.” Gavros spoke. “He was once veterinaries for the Greens.”

“You were right, Gavros. Most definitely nightshade.”

“What can you do for them?”

“Bury them.” He shrugged, shaking his head and looked up at Tenax.

“I’m not in the mood for jokes.”

“There’s little you can do. A magnus might say put crows in their stalls for three nights… and use bells to call out the Orci spirits from their livers.” Tenax smirked in disbelief.

“I’m not gonna bet my life on that one. Do what you can.” He then took a step towards the Corsi brothers, glaring and poiting a threatening finger at them. Elia stood up. “No one has seen this. If you tell a single fucking person, you will die in ways you cannot imagine. Do you understand?” Aldea stayed silent as he addressed her brothers. It wasn’t her place to speak, even less to cut him off. She shouldn’t even be in there and was mainly allowed to be present because of her link to the six men inside. Even simpler than that, as his wife, she stayed out of his business, and this was business. The fact it involved her family didn’t matter. she wasn't going to undermine his credibility by speaking when she should remain quiet. “Don't believe my threats to be empty just because you are my wife's brothers. Remember… the only person you have to fear more than Domitian… is me.”

“We understand, sir. We have seen nothing here.” Andria acquiesced. She could tell he was intimidated and took Tenax’s words very seriously, and he was right to do so. A faint smile appeared on his face, like a ray of sunshine managing to break through the clouds momentarily. This was as much a friendly “nice to meet you” smile as it was a threatening “if something happened to Aldea, I’ll kill you” kind of smile. He then motioned for Scorpus and Gavros to follow him outside and left the Corsi in the stables. The poor horses groaned at their feet. Leading his sister along with him, Fonsoa called to his brothers to go talk in private in a stall a little further in the stable.

“All right, little brother, you win. This is getting too dangerous. I say we play along until dark and then slip out of the city.” Aldea frowned, slightly shaking her head. She held her arms, looking around. Elia took his eyes off the ground and glanced at his brother.

“To go where?” Andria asked.

“Anywhere other than here. Home?”

“I’m not gonna leave our horses to die.” Elia argued.

“Now he wants to stay?” Fonsoa smirked in disbelief.

“We have reared these horses since they were foals.” He insisted. “I love them. And I’m not going to leave them behind.”

“The Emperor’s son has seen us.” Andria added. “How far would we get if we run? We have no option. Fonsoa, you said it yourself last night… we can’t expect Aldea to leave the city either. She’s married and with child. I say, we throw in with Scorpus and Tenax.”

“It will be fine if you listen to what Tenax says, Fonsoa.” Aldea then spoke, following Andria as the later walked away. She looked over her shoulder when she heard something slam against wood. Elia was still in the stall, with Fonsoa following in his siblings’ footsteps. She sighed through her nose, quietly. He had been shoved by Fonsoa into the wall of the horse’s stall. She watched her brother walk past her and turned back, going straight to Elia.

“I’m fine.” He said under his breath as she grabbed his shoulder and made him look at her, putting her finger under his chin to lift his head. He softly pushed her hand away and she took a step back to give him some space and sighed before walking to the door where Andria was peeking out, looking at Scorpus, Tenax and Gavros. She arrived as Tenax pointed at her brother, ordering him to keep someone safe and since Scorpus led him away with him, pretending to go fetch some fresh horses, she understood he had sent Andria with Scorpus to go get something. She crossed eyes with her husband after he sent Gavros to get guards to stand.

“Where is my brother going with Scorpus?” Tenax looked around, bringing her towards the wall.

“We’ll talk about this later. Right now, I need to deal with this. I want you to go home.” She stared at him for a few seconds before nodding with a sigh. He saw she wasn’t really pleased to leave so he gave her a comforting look and she walked away. Before she even left the area of the circus, she glanced behind her, thinking of her two brothers and she was surprised to see Fonsoa, carrying a sack, leaving the stables. He didn’t notice her right away, staring into space angrily. She stopped in her tracks and waited for him to look at her which he eventually did as he came closer. He came to a halt.

“Where’s Elia?” At her question, he looked away with an annoyed snort and kept on walking. She called his name and walked with a brisk step to keep up with him. Seeing her struggle, he apologized and slowed down his pace. “Are you leaving?”

“Yes. I’m not spending another night in this city.”

“Fonsoa…” He turned to her, stopping suddenly and grabbed her shoulder.

“You’ve been living with this man for four years? We’ve been here for two days and it’s already getting dangerous. He threatened us.”

“I told you; everyone will be fine as long as you keep this situation to yourself. His threats weren’t empty, but he won’t harm you. He has to be like this. Life in Rome is quite unforgiving.” She tried to explain but he shook his head.

“No. I won't let this be my life, or yours, or my nephew's.”

“You can’t make me leave.” She argued with a scoff, leaning back, starign at him in incredulity.

“Aldea, this man is dangerous.”

“I’m the one living with him, Fonsoa. I know him. I get to say if he’s dangerous. Please, just trust me when I tell you that he’s not.”  She couldn’t believe she was having this conversation with him in the middle of the street and switched to Spanish mid-sentence. They argued all the way home until they stopped by the front door of Aldea’s insula. She looked desperate to convince her brother to change his mind and tired to fight with him.

He sighed, apologizing, “Lo siento, Aldea.”

“Please, reconsider.”

“I’ll see you later.” He gave her a kiss on her temple, and she watched him as he walked away and stood there until he disappeared from her sight, and only then did she enter the insula and get into the apartment where she got to cooking to keep herself busy while Tenax wasn’t home. Claudia came out of her room and proceeded to help her cook, cutting the foodstuffs together in the kitchen by the candlelight. Not long after, the two women stopped when the door suddenly opened, and a young Numidian woman was pushed into the room. Aldea looked at her, squinting her eyes in confusion. Tenax came in after her, closing the door behind her. He asked Claudia and Aldea to leave them and the Spaniard didn’t move for a couple seconds while the housekeeper went back in her room, but after a second look from Tenax, she walked past him and the young woman, glancing at her from the corner of her eyes and she closed the doors behind her, leaving them slightly ajar, peeking out. Tenax stretched out his hand towards the chair, asking the girl to sit but she glared at him, somehow reminding Aldea of herself when she first stepped in his home.

“I said sit.” He pointed at the chair again, with his index finger, the light making his signet ring shine.

“After you take me, sooner or later you will fall asleep, and when you do, I will slit your throat.”

“You’re going to still my throat?” He nodded his head, and she could feel him shoot up his eyebrows in skepticism. The girl gasped as he took a step towards her and grabbed her by the throat. Aldea carefully pushed the door, so as not to make any noise, though she wouldn’t have been punished if he saw she was listening – he expected she would and knew she was – and she approached her ear from the opening as Tenax lowered his voice, speaking closer to the girl.

“I own you. You are my slave.” Aldea frowned, not understanding why he would buy a slave, after not doing so ever since he bought her. He didn’t actually need a slave then; she didn’t know why he would need a slave now. “I can do whatever I want with you.” Someone started pounding on the door. The loud knocking interrupted him and Aldea grabbed the doors handles and opened them entirely, stepping outside of the bedroom as he pulled out his dagger before unlocking the front door and came face to face with another Numidian woman, standing on the landing. Tenax exhaled, seemingly exasperated. “You don’t give up.”

“I’m her mother.” He sighed, inviting her in with a gesture. She rushed towards her daughter, and they threw themselves into each other’s arms. Tenax glanced over his shoulder upon feeling Aldea come up from behind her. The look she gave him was asking for an explanation, but he responded with a wave of the hand, meaning he would deal with her later and he turned to the newcomer as he put away his blade.

“I already told you. She’s not for sale.”

“Everything is for sale. At the right price.”

“Not her.” She stood before her daughter, as if shielding her while Aldea watched Tenax from behind, puzzled by what was going on.

“Why did you buy her?”

“I need to know things about the person who bought your other daughter.” Aldea joined her hands at her waist, nodding to herself, now understanding why he bought a slave out of nowhere.

“I see. You seek to use this daughter as a go-between to my other daughter to spy on your enemy. I have an alternative.”

“I’m listening.”

“I will be your go-between.” She offered. Her daughter parted her lips, about to protest but her mother continued. “But you don’t touch her. And when this is over, whatever it is, you allow me to buy her… at your cost.”

Tenax scoffed, taking a few steps in the woman’s direction, “No. When all this is done, I will consider selling her to you for whatever price I like.”

“I need lodging.” He smiled, amused and chuckled, glancing over his shoulder at Aldea and showed the room at the back of the flat.

“You can stay with your daughter for a couple of nights.” He stressed the last few words and turned around, slipping his hand from Aldea’s shoulder to her back as he led her to bedroom with him. They would finally have some time to talk, just the two of them. Aldea had a lot of things to ask him to clarify the situation. The last thing they heard before he closed the doors behind them was the woman telling them her name, Cala.

[To be continued…]  

Previous Chapter / Next Chapter (SOON)

Published (08/20/2024) by Andrea

[daisyishedwig]

So my plan was originally to do these recaps every month, but that didn't happen. So instead, here's a reading recap for the first 6 months of 2024 in which I read 99 books, a concept that is still insane to me considering my goal for the year was 50. Pictured are my highlights, the god-tier books that left me screaming or the ones that I left feeling like a new person.

And here is the full list of everything I've read so far this year. (Bolded are the books pictured and italicised are books reread)

January My Dear Henry by Kalynn Bayron 4/5 The Seven Husband of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid 5/5 Padawan by Kiersten White 5/5 Dark Heir by C.S. Pacat 5/5 You’re Not Supposed to Die Tonight by Kalynn Bayron 3/5 The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones 5/5 Teach the Torches to Burn by Caleb Roehrig 5/5 The Star Host Trilogy by F.T. Lukens 5/5 Most Ardently by Gabe Cole Novoa 4/5 Harley Quinn: Die Laughing by Jimmy Palmiotti, Amanda Conner 3/5 Coffee Boy by Austin Chant 5/5 Star Wars: Vader: Dark Visions by Dennis Hopeless 3/5 Caroline’s Heart by Austin Chant 5/5 Stranger Things: Flight of Icarus by Caitlin Schneiderhan 2/5

February Self-Made Boys by Anna-Marie McLemore 5/5 Pretty Boy by Jett Masterson 1/5 The Prince’s Dearest Guards by Beau Van Dalen 3/5 The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab 5/5 A House Unsettled by Trynne Delaney 3/5 Bunt! Striking Out on Financial Aid by Ngozi Ukazu 5/5 The Chalice of the Gods by Rick Riordan 4/5

March  By Any Other Name by Erin Cotter 5/5 From Here to Eternity: Travelling the World to Find the Good Death by Caitlin Doughty 4/5 Family Business by Jonathan Sims 5/5 Hook's Tale: Being the Account of an Unjustly Villainized Pirate Written by Himself by John Leonard Pielmeier 4/5 Mapping the Interior by Stephen Graham Jones 4/5 Ouran High School Host Club by Bisco Hatori 5/5 Peter Darling by Austin Chant 5/5 Night of the Mannequins by Stephen Graham Jones 3/5 Darling by K. Ancrum 5/5

April The Candy Shop War by Brandon Mull 2/5 A Worthy Opponent by Katee Robert 5/5 Circe by Madeline Miller 4/5 The Never King by Nikki St. Crowe 4/5 Ben and Beatriz by Katalina Gamarra 5/5 Hide: The Graphic Novel by Kiersten White 3/5 The Darcy Myth: Jane Austen, Literary Heartthrobs, and the Monsters They Taught Us to Love by Rachel Feder 4/5 The Dark One by Nikki St. Crowe 4/5 Their Vicious Darling by Nikki St. Crowe 4/5 Ledfeather by Stephen Graham Jones 5/5 The Fae Princes by Nikki St. Crowe 4/5

May  Black Butler by Yana Toboso 4/5 The 2000s Made Me Gay: Essays on Pop Culture by Grace Perry 4/5 Pan by Christopher Ruz 3/5 Devourer of Men by Nikki St. Crowe 3/5 The Promised Neverland by Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu 4/5 A Sea of Unfortunate Sould by Jay R. Wolf 3/5 Someone You Can Build A Nest In by John Wiswell 4/5

June The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan 5/5 Red Rising by Pierce Brown 4/5 Neon Gods by Katee Robert 5/5 The Girl From the Well by Rin Chupeco 5/5 The Sea of Monsters by Rick Riordan 4/5 What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher 4/5 The Titan’s Curse by Rick Riordan 5/5 Hooked by Emily Mcintire 4/5 Anger is a Gift by Mark Oshiro 5/5 A Spindle Splintered by Alix E. Harrow 5/5 A Thief in the Night by KJ Charles 5/5 How To Bite Your Neighbor and Win A Wager by D.N. Bryn 5/5 His First Bite by D.N. Bryn 5/5 The Lost Boy by Joshua Grant 3/5 Tink and Wendy by Kelly Ann Jacobson 3/5 The Wicker King by K. Ancrum 5/5 Epically Earnest by Molly Horan 4/5 Otherworldly by F.T. Lukens 5/5 White Smoke by Tiffany D. Jackson 5/5 Dark Heir by C.S. Pacat 5/5 A Mirror Mended by Alix E. Harrow 5/5 Peter Pan in Scarlet by Geraldine McCaughrean 5/5 Night of the Living Queers: A Queer Horror Anthology 4/5

[dailyanarchistposts]

F.8.3 What other forms did state intervention in creating capitalism take?

Beyond being a paymaster for new forms of production and social relations as well as defending the owners’ power, the state intervened economically in other ways as well. As we noted in section B.2.5, the state played a key role in transforming the law codes of society in a capitalistic fashion, ignoring custom and common law when it was convenient to do so. Similarly, the use of tariffs and the granting of monopolies to companies played an important role in accumulating capital at the expense of working people, as did the breaking of unions and strikes by force.

However, one of the most blatant of these acts was the enclosure of common land. In Britain, by means of the Enclosure Acts, land that had been freely used by poor peasants was claimed by large landlords as private property. As socialist historian E.P. Thompson summarised, “the social violence of enclosure consisted … in the drastic, total imposition upon the village of capitalist property-definitions.” [The Making of the English Working Class, pp. 237–8] Property rights, which favoured the rich, replaced the use rights and free agreement that had governed peasants use of the commons. Unlike use rights, which rest in the individual, property rights require state intervention to create and maintain. “Parliament and law imposed capitalist definitions to exclusive property in land,” Thompson notes. This process involved ignoring the wishes of those who used the commons and repressing those who objected. Parliament was, of course, run by and for the rich who then simply “observed the rules which they themselves had made.” [Customs in Common, p. 163]

Unsurprisingly, many landowners would become rich through the enclosure of the commons, heaths and downland while many ordinary people had a centuries old right taken away. Land enclosure was a gigantic swindle on the part of large landowners. In the words of one English folk poem written in 1764 as a protest against enclosure:

They hang the man, and flog the woman, That steals the goose from off the common; But let the greater villain loose, That steals the common from the goose.

It should be remembered that the process of enclosure was not limited to just the period of the industrial revolution. As Colin Ward notes, “in Tudor times, a wave of enclosures by land-owners who sought to profit from the high price of wool had deprived the commoners of their livelihood and obliged them to seek work elsewhere or become vagrants or squatters on the wastes on the edges of villages.” [Cotters and Squatters, p. 30] This first wave increased the size of the rural proletariat who sold their labour to landlords. Nor should we forget that this imposition of capitalist property rights did not imply that it was illegal. As Michael Perelman notes, "[f]ormally, this dispossession was perfectly legal. After all, the peasants did not have property rights in the narrow sense. They only had traditional rights. As markets evolved, first land-hungry gentry and later the bourgeoisie used the state to create a legal structure to abrogate these traditional rights.” [The Invention of Capitalism, pp. 13–4]

While technically legal as the landlords made the law, the impact of this stealing of the land should not be under estimated. Without land, you cannot live and have to sell your liberty to others. This places those with capital at an advantage, which will tend to increase, rather than decrease, the inequalities in society (and so place the landless workers at an increasing disadvantage over time). This process can be seen from early stages of capitalism. With the enclosure of the land an agricultural workforce was created which had to travel where the work was. This influx of landless ex-peasants into the towns ensured that the traditional guild system crumbled and was transformed into capitalistic industry with bosses and wage slaves rather than master craftsmen and their journeymen. Hence the enclosure of land played a key role, for “it is clear that economic inequalities are unlikely to create a division of society into an employing master class and a subject wage-earning class, unless access to the means of production, including land, is by some means or another barred to a substantial section of the community.” [Maurice Dobb, Studies in Capitalist Development, p. 253]

The importance of access to land is summarised by this limerick by the followers of Henry George (a 19th century writer who argued for a “single tax” and the nationalisation of land). The Georgites got their basic argument on the importance of land down these few, excellent, lines:

A college economist planned To live without access to land He would have succeeded But found that he needed Food, shelter and somewhere to stand.

Thus anarchists concern over the “land monopoly” of which the Enclosure Acts were but one part. The land monopoly, to use Tucker’s words, “consists in the enforcement by government of land titles which do not rest upon personal occupancy and cultivation.” [The Anarchist Reader, p. 150] So it should be remembered that common land did not include the large holdings of members of the feudal aristocracy and other landlords. This helped to artificially limit available land and produce a rural proletariat just as much as enclosures.

It is important to remember that wage labour first developed on the land and it was the protection of land titles of landlords and nobility, combined with enclosure, that meant people could not just work their own land. The pressing economic circumstances created by enclosing the land and enforcing property rights to large estates ensured that capitalists did not have to point a gun at people’s heads to get them to work long hours in authoritarian, dehumanising conditions. In such circumstances, when the majority are dispossessed and face the threat of starvation, poverty, homelessness and so on, “initiation of force” is not required. But guns were required to enforce the system of private property that created the labour market in the first place, to enclosure common land and protect the estates of the nobility and wealthy.

By decreasing the availability of land for rural people, the enclosures destroyed working-class independence. Through these Acts, innumerable peasants were excluded from access to their former means of livelihood, forcing them to seek work from landlords or to migrate to the cities to seek work in the newly emerging factories of the budding industrial capitalists who were thus provided with a ready source of cheap labour. The capitalists, of course, did not describe the results this way, but attempted to obfuscate the issue with their usual rhetoric about civilisation and progress. Thus John Bellers, a 17th-century supporter of enclosures, claimed that commons were “a hindrance to Industry, and … Nurseries of Idleness and Insolence.” The “forests and great Commons make the Poor that are upon them too much like the indians.” [quoted by Thompson, Op. Cit., p. 165] Elsewhere Thompson argues that the commons “were now seen as a dangerous centre of indiscipline … Ideology was added to self-interest. It became a matter of public-spirited policy for gentlemen to remove cottagers from the commons, reduce his labourers to dependence.” [The Making of the English Working Class, pp. 242–3] David McNally confirms this, arguing “it was precisely these elements of material and spiritual independence that many of the most outspoken advocates of enclosure sought to destroy.” Eighteenth-century proponents of enclosure “were remarkably forthright in this respect. Common rights and access to common lands, they argued, allowed a degree of social and economic independence, and thereby produced a lazy, dissolute mass of rural poor who eschewed honest labour and church attendance … Denying such people common lands and common rights would force them to conform to the harsh discipline imposed by the market in labour.” [Against the Market, p. 19]

The commons gave working-class people a degree of independence which allowed them to be “insolent” to their betters. This had to be stopped, as it undermined to the very roots of authority relationships within society. The commons increased freedom for ordinary people and made them less willing to follow orders and accept wage labour. The reference to “Indians” is important, as the independence and freedom of Native Americans is well documented. The common feature of both cultures was communal ownership of the means of production and free access to it (usufruct). This is discussed further in section I.7 (Won’t Libertarian Socialism destroy individuality?). As Bookchin stressed, the factory “was not born from a need to integrate labour with modern machinery,” rather it was to regulate labour and make it regular. For the “irregularity, or ‘naturalness,’ in the rhythm and intensity of traditional systems of work contributed more towards the bourgeoisie’s craze for social control and its savagely anti-naturalistic outlook than did the prices or earnings demanded by its employees. More than any single technical factor, this irregularity led to the rationalisation of labour under a single ensemble of rule, to a discipline of work and regulation of time that yielded the modern factory … the initial goal of the factory was to dominate labour and destroy the worker’s independence from capital.” [The Ecology of Freedom p. 406]

Hence the pressing need to break the workers’ ties with the land and so the “loss of this independence included the loss of the worker’s contact with food cultivation … To live in a cottage … often meant to cultivate a family garden, possibly to pasture a cow, to prepare one’s own bread, and to have the skills for keeping a home in good repair. To utterly erase these skills and means of a livelihood from the worker’s life became an industrial imperative.” Thus the worker’s “complete dependence on the factory and on an industrial labour market was a compelling precondition for the triumph of industrial society … The need to destroy whatever independent means of life the worker could garner … all involved the issue of reducing the proletariat to a condition of total powerlessness in the face of capital. And with that powerlessness came a supineness, a loss of character and community, and a decline in moral fibre.” [Bookchin, Op. Cit.,, pp. 406–7] Unsurprisingly, there was a positive association between enclosure and migration out of villages and a “definite correlation … between the extent of enclosure and reliance on poor rates … parliamentary enclosure resulted in out-migration and a higher level of pauperisation.” Moreover, “the standard of living was generally much higher in those areas where labourer managed to combine industrial work with farming … Access to commons meant that labourers could graze animals, gather wood, stones and gravel, dig coal, hunt and fish. These rights often made the difference between subsistence and abject poverty.” [David McNally, Op. Cit., p. 14 and p. 18] Game laws also ensured that the peasantry and servants could not legally hunt for food as from the time of Richard II (1389) to 1831, no person could kill game unless qualified by estate or social standing.

The enclosure of the commons (in whatever form it took — see section F.8.5 for the US equivalent) solved both problems — the high cost of labour, and the freedom and dignity of the worker. The enclosures perfectly illustrate the principle that capitalism requires a state to ensure that the majority of people do not have free access to any means of livelihood and so must sell themselves to capitalists in order to survive. There is no doubt that if the state had “left alone” the European peasantry, allowing them to continue their collective farming practices (“collective farming” because, as Kropotkin shows, the peasants not only shared the land but much of the farm labour as well), capitalism could not have taken hold (see Mutual Aid for more on the European enclosures [pp. 184–189]). As Kropotkin notes, ”[i]nstances of commoners themselves dividing their lands were rare, everywhere the State coerced them to enforce the division, or simply favoured the private appropriation of their lands” by the nobles and wealthy. Thus “to speak of the natural death of the village community [or the commons] in virtue of economical law is as grim a joke as to speak of the natural death of soldiers slaughtered on a battlefield.” [Mutual Aid, p. 188 and p. 189]

Once a labour market was created by means of enclosure and the land monopoly, the state did not passively let it work. When market conditions favoured the working class, the state took heed of the calls of landlords and capitalists and intervened to restore the “natural” order. The state actively used the law to lower wages and ban unions of workers for centuries. In Britain, for example, after the Black Death there was a “servant” shortage. Rather than allow the market to work its magic, the landlords turned to the state and the result was “the Statute of Labourers” of 1351:

“Whereas late against the malice of servants, which were idle, and not willing to serve after the pestilence, without taking excessive wages, it was ordained by our lord the king … that such manner of servants … should be bound to serve, receiving salary and wages, accustomed in places where they ought to serve in the twentieth year of the reign of the king that now is, or five or six years before; and that the same servants refusing to serve in such manner should be punished by imprisonment of their bodies … now forasmuch as it is given the king to understand in this present parliament, by the petition of the commonalty, that the said servants having no regard to the said ordinance, .. to the great damage of the great men, and impoverishing of all the said commonalty, whereof the said commonalty prayeth remedy: wherefore in the said parliament, by the assent of the said prelates, earls, barons, and other great men, and of the same commonalty there assembled, to refrain the malice of the said servants, be ordained and established the things underwritten.”

Thus state action was required because labourers had increased bargaining power and commanded higher wages which, in turn, led to inflation throughout the economy. In other words, an early version of the NAIRU (see section C.9). In one form or another this statute remained in force right through to the 19th century (later versions made it illegal for employees to “conspire” to fix wages, i.e., to organise to demand wage increases). Such measures were particularly sought when the labour market occasionally favoured the working class. For example, ”[a]fter the Restoration [of the English Monarchy],” noted Dobb, “when labour-scarcity had again become a serious complaint and the propertied class had been soundly frightened by the insubordination of the Commonwealth years, the clamour for legislative interference to keep wages low, to drive the poor into employment and to extend the system of workhouses and ‘houses of correction’ and the farming out of paupers once more reached a crescendo.” The same occurred on Continental Europe. [Op. Cit., p. 234]

So, time and again employers called on the state to provide force to suppress the working class, artificially lower wages and bolster their economic power and authority. While such legislation was often difficult to enforce and often ineffectual in that real wages did, over time, increase, the threat and use of state coercion would ensure that they did not increase as fast as they may otherwise have done. Similarly, the use of courts and troops to break unions and strikes helped the process of capital accumulation immensely. Then there were the various laws used to control the free movement of workers. “For centuries,” notes Colin Ward, “the lives of the poor majority in rural England were dominated by the Poor law and its ramifications, like the Settlement Act of 1697 which debarred strangers from entering a parish unless they had a Settlement Certificate in which their home parish agreed to take them back if they became in need of poor relief. Like the Workhouse, it was a hated institution that lasted into the 20th century.” [Op. Cit., p. 31]

As Kropotkin stressed, “it was the State which undertook to settle .. . griefs” between workers and bosses “so as to guarantee a ‘convenient’ livelihood” (convenient for the masters, of course). It also acted “severely to prohibit all combinations … under the menace of severe punishments … Both in the town and in the village the State reigned over loose aggregations of individuals, and was ready to prevent by the most stringent measures the reconstitution of any sort of separate unions among them.” Workers who formed unions “were prosecuted wholesale under the Master and Servant Act — workers being summarily arrested and condemned upon a mere complaint of misbehaviour lodged by the master. Strikes were suppressed in an autocratic way … to say nothing of the military suppression of strike riots … To practice mutual support under such circumstances was anything but an easy task … After a long fight, which lasted over a hundred years, the right of combing together was conquered.” [Mutual Aid, p. 210 and p. 211] It took until 1813 until the laws regulating wages were repealed while the laws against combinations remained until 1825 (although that did not stop the Tolpuddle Martyrs being convicted of “administering an illegal oath” and deported to Tasmania in 1834). Fifty years later, the provisions of the statues of labourers which made it a civil action if the boss broke his contract but a criminal action if the worker broke it were repealed. Trade unions were given legal recognition in 1871 while, at the same time, another law limited what the workers could do in a strike or lockout. The British ideals of free trade never included freedom to organise.

(Luckily, by then, economists were at hand to explain to the workers that organising to demand higher wages was against their own self-interest. By a strange coincidence, all those laws against unions had actually helped the working class by enforcing the necessary conditions for perfect competition in labour market! What are the chances of that? Of course, while considered undesirable from the perspective of mainstream economists — and, by strange co-incidence, the bosses — unions are generally not banned these days but rather heavily regulated. The freedom loving, deregulating Thatcherites passed six Employment Acts between 1980 and 1993 restricting industrial action by requiring pre-strike ballots, outlawing secondary action, restricting picketing and giving employers the right to seek injunctions where there is doubt about the legality of action — in the workers’ interest, of course as, for some reason, politicians, bosses and economists have always known what best for trade unionists rather than the trade unionists themselves. And if they objected, well, that was what the state was for.)

So to anyone remotely familiar with working class history the notion that there could be an economic theory which ignores power relations between bosses and workers is a particularly self-serving joke. Economic relations always have a power element, even if only to protect the property and power of the wealthy — the Invisible Hand always counts on a very visible Iron Fist when required. As Kropotkin memorably put it, the rise of capitalism has always seen the State “tighten the screw for the worker” and “impos[ing] industrial serfdom.” So what the bourgeoisie “swept away as harmful to industry” was anything considered as “useless and harmful” but that class “was at pains not to sweep away was the power of the State over industry, over the factory serf.” Nor should the role of public schooling be overlooked, within which “the spirit of voluntary servitude was always cleverly cultivated in the minds of the young, and still is, in order to perpetuate the subjection of the individual to the State.” [The State: Its Historic Role, pp. 52–3 and p. 55] Such education also ensured that children become used to the obedience and boredom required for wage slavery.

Like the more recent case of fascist Chile, “free market” capitalism was imposed on the majority of society by an elite using the authoritarian state. This was recognised by Adam Smith when he opposed state intervention in The Wealth of Nations. In Smith’s day, the government was openly and unashamedly an instrument of wealth owners. Less than 10 per cent of British men (and no women) had the right to vote. When Smith opposed state interference, he was opposing the imposition of wealth owners’ interests on everybody else (and, of course, how “liberal”, never mind “libertarian”, is a political system in which the many follow the rules and laws set-down in the so-called interests of all by the few? As history shows, any minority given, or who take, such power will abuse it in their own interests). Today, the situation is reversed, with neo-liberals and right-“libertarians” opposing state interference in the economy (e.g. regulation of Big Business) so as to prevent the public from having even a minor impact on the power or interests of the elite. The fact that “free market” capitalism always requires introduction by an authoritarian state should make all honest “Libertarians” ask: How “free” is the “free market”?

[jackoshadows]

What do you think will be the political ramifications of Jon's death? I think the free folk won't have it. It will be really chaotic.

The Freefolk are most definitely not having it. At this point Jon Snow is more or less their King Beyond the Wall. They are ready to fight for him. The last Jon chapter makes that clear.

“The Night’s Watch will make for Hardhome. I ride to Winterfell alone, unless …” Jon paused. “… is there any man here who will come stand with me?”

The roar was all he could have hoped for, the tumult so loud that the two old shields tumbled from the walls. Soren Shieldbreaker was on his feet, the Wanderer as well. Toregg the Tall, Brogg, Harle the Huntsman and Harle the Handsome both, Ygon Oldfather, Blind Doss, even the Great Walrus. I have my swords, thought Jon Snow, and we are coming for you, Bastard. - Jon, ADwD

Jon has not only let the Freefolk this side of the Wall, he has also let them keep their Gods (Unlike Stannis), not asked them to bend the knee and given them charge of some of the castles on the Wall and leadership positions at Castle Black. When the assassination happens, Jon hears the Freefolk leaving the Shieldhall behind him:

Men poured from the surrounding keeps and towers. Northmen, free folk, queen’s men - Jon, ADwD

Jon has given Oakenshield and Queensgate - the two castles on either side of Castle Black - to Tormund Giantsbane and Morna White Mask. Tormund and his men are already there when the mutiny happens. Morna and her spearwives are on their way and are most probably already there when everything goes south. So are Iron Emmett and his spearwives. Add Borroq and his giant boar and Wun Wun to the mix and the mutineers don’t stand a chance in the immediate aftermath.

The only obstacle I can see to the Freefolk going berserk is an obstacle that Jon Snow himself created - the child hostages. These children have been send to Eastwatch and the Shadow Tower. With Cotter Pyke at Hardhome, it’s now Ser Glendon Hewett who holds Eastwatch.

Though the last part troubles me. Glendon Hewett was a seasoned man and a strong one, a sensible choice to command in Cotter Pyke’s absence. But he was also as much a friend as Alliser Thorne could boast, and a crony of sorts with Janos Slynt, however briefly. Jon could still recall how Hewett had dragged him from his bed, and the feel of his boot slamming into his ribs. Not the man I would have chosen - Jon, ADwD

I am not sure which way the Queensmen will move. On the one hand Wun Wun ripping apart Ser Patrek. On the other hand, the current Lord of Winterfell is threatening Queen Selyse, Shireen and Melisandre and the Lord Commander was actively helping their king and protecting their queen, going against his NW oaths for which he just got murdered.

Jon’s death is going to further complicate Northern politics. We know there are Northern houses who are aware of Robb’s decree and see Jon Stark as the next King in the North. As GRRM says in this SSM,

Q: I have a question, since Robb actually  legitimized Jon and named him his heir for Winterfell and the North  before the Red Wedding (granted no one knows about this and is still  alive or free, the Greatjon knows as does Edmure, but I dont see them  getting out of the Twins any time soon and Catelyn would probably die  before telling anyone) does this make Jon’s rejection of Stannis’ offer  moot?

A: Edmure and the Greatjon are prisoners, true… but you are forgetting  the envoys that Robb sent to Howland Reed… Galbart Glover, Maege  Mormont, Jason Mallister… they are all alive and free…

There’s House Thenn, newly created because of the marriage brokering Jon Snow did and the Freefolk holding land this side of the Wall. Alys was aided by Jon Snow and her uncle is still imprisoned at the Wall.

It’s possible Edmure Tully and other prisoners are getting freed in the next book by the brotherhood without banner and Edmure is a witness and signatory to Robb’s decree that legitimizes Jon Snow and names him Lord of Winterfell.

We know of two possible ‘envoys’ from Riverrun send by the Blackfish to the Wall - Robin Ryger, former Captain of the Guards and Desmond Grell, former Master at Arms. Both experienced men who chose to take the black after Jaime ends the siege of Riverrun and ask to be send to the Wall. Raff is supposed to have escorted them to Maidenpool, from where they travel to Eastwatch-by-the-Sea. Considering that TWoW has Raff in Braavos, it could very well be that these two gents have reached Eastwatch. How are they going to react?

Then there’s Justin Massey with Jeyne Poole who will pass through Castle Black on his way to Eastwatch and Braavos. What is he going to do with what happened? Will word get back to Stannis? However, according to the Pink Letter, Stannis has apparently lost to the Boltons. The time lines are a mess.

The main thing is that the famed neutrality of the NW has shattered, and there’s going to be infighting amongst crows, wildlings, queensmen and northmen. There will most definitely be political ramifications in terms of who it is that will end up holding the North by the end of TWoW.

[dyannawynnedayne]

Which character parallel do you like the best?

Jon and Sam: art by @mummer (1, 2)

Davos and JonCon: art by @wodania (1, 2)

Propaganda is encouraged!

1. Both pulled strings to get the other into a higher position

"I know one thing Sam could do better than anyone." "Yes?" Maester Aemon prompted. Jon glanced warily at Chett, standing beside the door, his boils red and angry. "He could help you," he said quickly. "He can do sums, and he knows how to read and write. I know Chett can't read, and Clydas has weak eyes. Sam read every book in his father's library. He'd be good with the ravens too. Animals seem to like him. Ghost took to him straight off. There's a lot he could do, besides fighting. The Night's Watch needs every man. Why kill one, to no end? Make use of him instead."

AGOT, Jon V

"There's another man," Sam blurted out. "Lord Commander Mormont trusted him. So did Donal Noye and Qhorin Halfhand. Though he's not as highly born as you, he comes from old blood. He was castle-born and castle-raised, and he learned sword and lance from a knight and letters from a maester of the Citadel. His father was a lord, and his brother a king." Ser Denys stroked his long white beard. "Mayhaps," he said, after a long moment. "He is very young, but . . . mayhaps. He might serve, I grant you, though I would be more suitable. I have no doubt of that. I would be the wiser choice." Jon said there could be honor in a lie, if it were told for the right reason. Sam said, "If we do not choose a Lord Commander tonight, King Stannis means to name Cotter Pyke. He said as much to Maester Aemon this morning, after all of you had left." "I see." Ser Denys rose. "I must think on this. Thank you, Samwell. And give my thanks to Maester Aemon as well." [...] "I only need a moment more," Sam promised. "You won't withdraw for Ser Denys, you said, but you might for someone else." "Who is it this time, Slayer? You?" "No. A fighter. Donal Noye gave him the Wall when the wildlings came, and he was the Old Bear's squire. The only thing is, he's bastard-born." Cotter Pyke laughed. "Bloody hell. That would shove a spear up Mallister's arse, wouldn't it? Might be worth it just for that. How bad could the boy be?" He snorted. "I'd be better, though. I'm what's needed, any fool can see that." "Any fool," Sam agreed, "even me. But . . . well, I shouldn't be telling you, but . . . King Stannis means to force Ser Denys on us, if we do not choose a man tonight. I heard him tell Maester Aemon that, after the rest of you were sent away."

ASOS, Samwell V

Davos and JonCon

Both believe that they rose above themselves in their love of their liege

I rose too high, loved too hard, dared too much. I tried to grasp a star, overreached, and fell.

ADWD, The Griffin Reborn

A smuggler who rose above himself, thought Davos, a fool who loved his king too much.

ASOS, Davos I

[dk-thrive]

A candle on the floor and the smoke rose and curled. You don’t see the wind without it — the wind’s too light to see.

The most memorable sections in “Losing Music” recount Cotter’s daily struggles: the frustration of trying to hear his companions at a restaurant, fretting that he’ll destroy his hearing aids in sudden rain, trying to have sex while wearing them (“You just have to learn how to hold your head”). He’s lyrical about sounds we take for granted: wind rattling windows, old-fashioned radiators hissing to life, a cat drinking water. But he reserves his most passionate writing for music, “a world you can live inside. … When you’re young and you’re the hero of a movie, and the Heifetz you play in your car or the Velvet Underground you first try out sex to isn’t just background, it’s location and weather. You feel it on your skin.” On one of the blessed occasions when his hearing and tinnitus aren’t at their worst, he listens to a recording of a soprano. Her voice is “like someone set a candle on the floor and the smoke rose and curled. You don’t see the wind without it — the wind’s too light to see.” Writing that precise and moving helps us to grasp the full measure of the losses Cotter mourns.

— Lisa Zeidner, from “In his moving memoir, John Cotter anticipates a world without sound. ‘Losing Music’ offers readers a compelling portrait of what life is like with the rare and incurable condition Ménière’s disease. (Washington Post, April 12, 2023)

[a-solitary-sea-rover-backup]

When the entry period closed, the 2024 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race had attracted 112 yachts – 30 to 100 feet of varying designs – for the start of the 79th edition on December 26.

Four very different looking 100 footers will lead the fleet out of Sydney Harbour. The newest boat is Master Lock Comanche, the four-time Line Honors victor and current race record holder, chartered this year by Matt Allen and James Mayo.

Last year, the boat was raced as Andoo Comanche and led much of the way but behind her and making up ground on the light and fluky River Derwent was Christian Beck’s 2008 built warhorse, LawConnect. In one of the most scintillating scenarios imaginable, the lead changed multiple times in the River with LawConnect pipping her rival to the post by 51 seconds. 

Beck is back to defend, while Grant Wharington returns with Wild Thing 100, the 100-footer he extended from 80 feet in time for last year’s race. The fourth and new to the race, is Bill Barry-Cotter’s Oyster 100, Maritimo 100. Compared to the all-out racers, she enjoys a degree of creature comforts, but according to those who’ve sailed these boats, they are no slouch on the race track.

[netpen-info]

[ad_1] The Dorothea & Leo Rabkin Basis in Portland, Maine, has named the winners of its 2024 grants for visible arts journalists, who embody Artwork in America senior editor Emily Watlington. The grants carry an unrestricted $50,000, and acknowledge the “artistic and mental contributions” of arts writers, per a launch from the inspiration. The opposite grant winners are Greg Allen, of greg.org; Holland Cotter, chief artwork critic for The New York Instances; Robin Givhan, senior critic-at-large for the Washington Publish; Los Angeles–based mostly author and painter Thomas Lawson; Siddhartha Mitter, a contract author and common Instances contributor; Cassie Packard, critiques editor at frieze and creator of 2023’s Artwork Guidelines; and TK Smith, a cultural historian and curator of the humanities of Africa and the African diaspora on the Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory College in Atlanta. The Rabkin Basis launched the annual prize in 2017, and it nonetheless carries one of many largest purses out there to professionals who write for a normal viewers (quite than educational friends). This 12 months, for the primary time, the Rabkin Basis has commissioned portraits of the grant winners of their most well-liked workspace taken by artist-photographer Kevin J. Miyazaki. The venture, known as the Rabkin Interviews, additionally consists of an interview with Mary Louise Schumacher, the inspiration’s government director, to be revealed on Substack within the following weeks. “I’m grateful … that is going to assist me proceed to do the work for some time frame,” Mitter instructed the Basis, including that his biggest concern as an arts author is “survival” amid the present-day media panorama. “The broader drawback is there’s no present path to sustaining a follow as an arts author.” Judging the grants this 12 months have been Dennis Lim, inventive director of the New York Movie Competition; rashid shabazz, government director of the grant-making venture Essential Minded; and Alexandra Grant, a Los Angeles– and Berlin-based artist.  “We needed to humanize the labors of those important writers,” Schumacher, a author herself, mentioned. “We imagine arts writers are within the heart of our most important conversations, assist us suppose collectively in public, create the unique area analysis for artwork historical past, and bear witness to the worth of what artists do.” [ad_2]

[libidomechanica]

“And this much wrong, they measure”

A ballad sequence

               1

That by your Title green neon.     At last she rose was one by Heav’n expect from his knees; and     let him share the top, and ask’d the Tenth Intelligences     addest,—I lay my Face before the fresh new spangled tear,     which he had swept the dead;

the nutriment and silence in     language, the consenting to her. Form, I see him Land, they     do but sweet said, I fear to the stands possess a lawful     Government. And this much wrong, they measure. Lingering grey; as     blithe and because I had

known to Foreign sway may be beguile     they, like a calendar in one; shine on fire, ring     retrograde our love nor her, nor in Principles and bid thee     hence, because of that day she a moment on Travel-weary,     fain would blaze she such

a one as would tye. Prodigious     springe, the long-drawn threading in lifting of pictures on the     tender voice right, therefore we pilchards, that make simplest her     eyes to sing, and in these Gods, for lofty trees turn and bid     the bee upon the tears

had never coud withstand! The brute     blood, the Crowd: that Kingly Diadem he gives, but lives and     what to show you that path? Nor light he led it forth witless     wit, nor doth thus vse the Fantom of the cruel man and wide     sits mute admire and Love

before your features art, how far     have a Right in that Divine, since Heaven’s deep repose; close     in the painting, Rhiming, Drinking it back the loathsome myre:     such immortal height, and still. Like Feinds, were his hand. Became     a hurry of feet as

simple cotter’s ass, find shelter     now within. The rose, that it seem certain and cooking on     disquiet thus watred was my chance speaking colder when     I reach’d that I must a riddle tell. Would helpe their own, a     dewy shade where will

Europe’s latter hour again find     Wordsworth’s healing o’r: and summer, from blame, with sandalwood     left so sweet, yet deepest noon. Therefore say now—I want to     kiss on, to that unchaste? The Heathen Priest inslav’d thee, stella,     I say, all my love

alone, the God-like David was     Restor’d; saw with milder air. And maybe with these united     Fury of a Patience. Went at their Disease. As ever     ask’d me where already passed anguish grew—how bear it?     Than on Art. I must give

their tardy ages; this way. And     has casual task of use or garden, Maud, but not soundtrack     of rustic merchandize pillowing his treasure, now the     rural ditties peepe; nay more for a Worthies liggen wrapt     in a wider were than

was island of that sometimes rather     has such familiar was all that wind it feels right, of     those eyes like disguise, and their care the Florentines, saint     John there; thus far brought me Latin I constru’d Youth return     him that cheers when the

excitement thee. They nothing to stake     did vanish; more I must have I to take them, fat and dance     and busy at his grim head to my turf, and with a shade     of clustering trumpets gan to take up this     Simple, two bits of thine.

               2

The stormy Hebrides, where thou     please; gods themselves, nor Proud: his Cooks, what’s than Subjects find; among     the mark, runs faster

than the common grins on a page—     And now, O sire, grant my practice may all his lips pursed     their hands as trees borne you

love of the brave day so fair and     sea. What need the image of tranquillity, so shorten     I the straitest best of

a corner-stones. Our Authour swears     thy vestal, Heav’n will waft thee that I, alas, doe want to     weave me that tenderness,

which he spake with the prayse is bleeding     out its echoing chamber shut from kiss to die. When     you disdain, all saints I

swear, So saying shewed far off     their cups with silv’ry wings, for pity? And now delights and     born a shapeless ennui

surrounding that his noon so     witer man is stand: they may accuse, but drove afield, and     live patterned disarray—

my mind, and try their plays beaumont     and learned pulled a face! The wondrous moment in the rising     instinct, they may Give

and mine own land for ever as     the carpet, silent the same,—and think, because tis so, since     linger’d—joy and love do?

               3

That she must prize. I curse or kick     him for this close in tight, and thine eye; what may not know what     Relief can Righteously

decree that one word; no! Bought? And     significance of grief were not to have missed, with vernal     flower o’ the rotten

trees borne aloft, as, supperless     to its throat in a circle and pale his body is writ     each do I accuse the

parents to fade and good? Teaching     my road, this pride of nature did the murder works did Nature’s     genial genitors,

so that I call her threshold of     the vines bare of Justice did Joyn, the brute took the stony     bases of her returned

and down the distance follow’d through     branches make a twilight on Alisoun. Wherein my loving     best that naïve light

her must from Him—by Him directed,     enter brauely euerywhere, and the sun was not far     beyond the ground with horrid

shouts of verb and none was for     peace. Those great Nemesis break from the life! In the worthy     eye. And hugged and flower

o’ the stronger. Our enemies     have been three were sleepy hand with thy sweet said, How long have     you given, the man was

the ceiling. But, trowth, I care’t     na by. Cut off from his Aid has torn, he woud repenting     jealous Eye to tempt Gods

Providently Pimps for it; smiling     with the same: of what Occasion whether willing care:     o think you see, o pity,

sir, it were nurs’d upon those     weight in his fair and swear it will send ye. Would be together     is ask’d me with so

much passions Wit can take the children’s     bones, is it peace forbeare, enter brauely euerywhere!     Not I, but she will be

done by sorrowing breathe his bill,     he holds the calm of a higher plane, imagining a     voice that but not thank me.

               4

Determines here, and nothing thee.     Many a day: our Authour swears this your Reign as Aarons’s     race, if once Divine, he ceas’d—she panted quick—and suddenly     he star. Hiding in the quarelets of all Compexions     some mother casting

day has run but to think on a     pincushion, the breezy shade and ere the Bong-tree grows on     mortal song, in this sad place for complete: suppose I’ve mickle     time to grieve. Beginning. Son, whom but Maud should be a     bud again. All thou shalt

hear at all—I never miss’d. I’ll     bring ye love: quest. And through many legions may as well know     that made tongue aspire to the fainting of the aik, on Yarrow     banks of Earn, and black. Hath not the bone. Or why sae sweet     emotion; not the little

throat, in publick Scorn. Make him     eerie,—o why should be together woman in arm: there     was pleasure than one, but then, is Europe’s dying hours     as the Race, but bountee telle can; hire swire is which do breath     to live a second time,

may loue to earth is a tomb. As     purply black mould, no winter close to hear the door upon     holy days are they rehearsed her hands repelling, gaue repulse     all grace too had a sore tempers can the grave, o Rotha,     with silver’d o’er the

cold, nor sideways with seeing Two     who draw one Breath to vent, or Curse with female with your hand,     A poor, weak, palsy-stricken breast, but their first shall Pity     soothe Love’s Garden: leavest thou, in all Minds best hope and chalk     and all to me it seemed

a thrill and arc, spheroid and saints     and count the worldy blisse bring of Hero and Left to publick     Scorn, our only Crowds, whose extended fright air hangs fresh     and was it else with Stellas selfe lies my business is not     to cheer, and of Manhattan

was island of negligent     or Weak? So Fraud was us’d, the Scrificers trade, and fresh air.     Such is true, and catch a lark. When cursed NO stain’d her smile, ’ said     Margaret for heaven and won it with a Zealous in a     poem, known by my Mercy

even to Madness near     adjoining light. The sacred bays and flatt’ring breeze of morning     room in thee for more’s ready!-Room, numb were the eye; what     matters fairest and meikle think! Twas Cupid with his cheek     forgiveness, all attend.

               5

That tender chearful as before.     Then your isolation has made my heart beating still; and     may see, when past the same:

of whatsoe’r their thoughts lay and life     of my hair to waken doubt na, lass, tak’ my advice: your     daddie’s sae mean, although

I never best habit is in     her darting up repentant to be eaten. As down in     mid-air the covered with

the beauteous Bride. Blinded of the     water was her dwelling caramels and fears his drooping,     made it all men adore,

and green. Nay, now I raised my hands,     and paint to pleasure have, life’s gay scenes of his Foot, and was     it for more’s ready

to smite does not say that I must     go, since in my chest. And yet—she has fallen: they coud not     be matcheth not all grace

to meet his Kindness, or may I     ne’er had long been dead, sunk from Cockle, that his person appeared—     just two more than all

these, for rested day nor neat, still     still beleeue me, thy Shadows haunting body so ill, thy soul,     as thou please—having thee

thither airt, and closely furl’d, the     same this way. If beneath his poor cottage warm; thy voice when     you met her, and snaky

Persius, they must be sought to all     but Save me thus, my Katie? Nor ever: find some beauty     of time must now disjoin,

what journey in my waking dream;     so cold her heart. Her solitary dove, I know no beauty     ever gaze into

Law: if not from the glad Divine     Perfection which giue th’eternal year is cramm’d with Foes? Hath     melted into Memory

quickens Lovers in her e’re.     Sick, sick to mine! The scarcely can recall, nor did mine and     thoughted, fond regard, thus

cruelly to paint now as I please,     no King could go to mine own. To strew the slavish hat from     Matter of their lips? Thus

do I pine and Bride; then, folk at     church up fine and summer dust burn to snow, or crystal grow,     to keep Touch warm, and golden

age, goethe has gone from those arms     champion of the tress will send the last when they maun dare     a new-kindled star that

tiny little seed; david, for     me. Together white, had strung, and hears that she mutter’d     In a poison’d gloom wrought.

               6

White heat. Might beneath the hours drag.     Whom but Maud should brooke somwhat the hall, and impious use     of Concubine and the same men of my own nostrils, should     I painted all the shade, Belovëd, thou forget thee.—Death,     I said, he lives were

recommend. I am undecided     which done, sir, to awake to human soul that sovereign     treaties he in the rising out carnival, and rak’d, for     thee. Rave at the Italians nickname mule’, a theme, her feathers     fall? Medici, i’

the foam, that mine sank sad and barren     of too much passionating look at me be darke, since     your Valentine? Or cast a Tangle in the heads nod, and     crowne; who, though a pale steam, and here entrusted too little     change now thou needs with a

glass of wit: restless dove, my dearest     placed herself, wilt thou leave my great, so pure a thinking.     Of all the banks the browne, as well becomes routine—look at     my soul a fair Pretence, which eyes shall it bee that strength burst     the soft amethyst, from

every nook of household matters     faire soft, more slow than the cottage warm; made my chest. And so     down on your word, this was written is to this hell. But at     their duty, all make way by many though she knows my days     hence! If so, then cried aloud.

But there is a garden lake     I stood, hid from thee. A virtue rudely move him, hurl’d him,     fair, the way by now just for my wealthiest orphans are     spreads her share I feel the same track when we first was found a     strange sights decay, as you

could find. Blythe was to keep off envy’s     stinging, Die, oh! But when it gets different seizure—as     withered o’er my shoulder interest may in to-night’s hollow     was dreamingly. It scarce maintained: but who, like those laws     destroyed. Late tyr’d with the

retire; and land—or all away?     A monk! And this in my Ear till Morning is simple     cotter’s ass, find shelter now within. With longing Court, then     should be a work divine, to rob the rest: without drawing     blood. Ah, my Anthea!

Her face: till the charm no more. A     doubtful smile—I shuffle among thousand creeds that most     gratefull men strive and ben; Blythe by the fresh repairs his Brains     were small wind shifts and They bow down the wide Common Name to     Heauen sownde. Would let you but

one these Arms may have you to my     turf, and providently Pimps for ill contents of those dalyings,     with an equally the whole soul? She did not to let     you swore to be; after all, though not proud that Salámán.     Whom, when the press’d dear hearts

folds and flowers that she, in chords     that beats, a family’s voice again; my last till my wish,     or to seal up the War, but nothing in the garden is     adorning: as they shoud, their roots are dry as summer and     wonderous Evidence

by fire. So she, and shone through     another night long with a Lordly Rage, his Hunters teares.     With a tender you had a long time to grieves me nothing     Fantom of the moon, more soft and merry tunes that we recall,     on such a Reign, his

Train their veil I saw I had love’s     veins thou gynst to steel; others home again. But she forgave     me, Royal BLood; what may not known, and in his story; and     battle-bolt sang to a small wind, when I couldn’t sleep ere I     forget the Hall and are

not such as fancied it would have     grown of a wooden members quite, as represent the Moon,     the cock the best of baser birth doth shine, sweet sake a face     of grief and more bright while Cupid bathing air. That so it     is, so faire a vertue art.

               7

That he may be neat, the Mind, as     I muse as on a sudden blow: the grapes, welcome gave our     past. Still then unmark’d, on

each base, to feede youthes fancied     it would corrupt my saint to be mine, lass, in publick Good,     some life to keep off envy’s

stinging, Die, oh! Thus long Chin     prov’d his Estate; tho far unable to know causes of     this time I vanish; more

soft babe in arms ’gainst my mind like     a human life, when the celestial kind. Around, in sickness;     left me in hand, like

Feinds, were hot. Come to their way down     this moment to Depose: true, they moved beyond his Head, turn’d     his woe. Thou movest under

shade: but Blanche: much passions leaue     that, seeing Hope yeeld when shall heart’s than his Wealth and those sad     eyes with indignities:

but why should be too hard the closer     than the charms my mind is Stella, the old man, seeing,     blessing and cold days are

thou art as I heard was of you     are unfolds cleanly. Burn to go, nor all your love I’ve made     apt to whimper; modest

grace; and the undone what He distress,     side bowing popularly low: his loom in which I     have heard no more: yourself,

wilt tell me, Angela, believe     me, that is—Material Form, and I want to hear our     son, because of Christ whose

speech from joy and love. Thou art gone,     and Lilly, why are your Filial Name, was call’d; The One     distribute. A shadows

of the dying words and wonder.—     Most of those two foes above, must make, unheard, my friend or     foe, shall be Naked left

the day, your cut to keepe the lowly     eye. Surely spring ere the clothed with my Book, in middle     state of the worldly

bustle, to my own child. With jet,     the word. Spirits of private Right, for Sums of new-found     Paradise, in him all that

purg’d by boyling o’er the breath? Thine     eyes from the digits, and of Gold. The ground. Their Jewish Markets     of thy husband is

subjects know how to scrambling ear,     no false foul breath most recently—the winds her waist, These let     us away, a human

race, or, in pride demurs when     you renounce … the mountain- top, to me in the People to     Betray’d by on either

dry nor night by Night has the Rascall     Rabble worse. There ends my strife we saw of passionate     women, and revel and

widow. That make so long to speak     when she upheld them not; the People, grief and pious people     forget thee. The Hall!

               8

By and by truant sheep. The sun     decline, my son! Feels the explosion. As is the likeness     I contemn; but love be

love. Darke, since our only Hope to     be not one, but wayling and tell thy mine wonges waxeth     wan: levedy, al forwake,

wery so water in a     wagon at dawn. Transgresses severall Objects, to my     sight? No fountain, love-

distracted looked like a cloud, all is     not far beyond his own selfe, but these wild the Royal bloodhound     roses free from the

blessing roof and Nature with eyes     of ours, take away my Wit and tender voice was before     his Eyes, and he reproof,

and of mine are sealed: and that assail     the truth. Twice or three. And all my night beauty alone     Love lived with, dim-descried.

               9

—Blythe, blythe and merry was she, Blythe     by the dumb on higher mood. It shall redeem in gentle     look of Fate, the river.

               10

Whilst thee that I alone could wisely Joyn, the beldame,     weak in body and in soul. Across my father Jonson now relaxed, there they came:     anon through all the Noblest Objects you to me, dismounted high. And strong These led the     jasmine so bright Mayakovsky got down My Madeline asleep laid by his side: and gained     the book of earrings and arrow-straight,

half-blotted: but their exit await, from friendless     regions Waste, beyond his wealth, worth have cause are the Fantom of the pull of life’s deathbell     rung; they call him I can’t, but yet now methinks my luve I ken brawling houses probes wounds,     dishonest minds out. Periphery pinned with Friendship, Gratitude, and insane distributor     of your old bare wall where twas

I. The gods they had, alas, thought to leaue not tempt     the three-decker out of the timbrels, and Redress of the world were all thy soft lays. Sunk     were his Peoples Prayer, the nerves of mornings in front—those charms my mind; my grief into     a grandson, first Impression by the breath to live a second protest you will freeze anon,     and all dispense a wild

civilization has made him his brand she will of pleasant     though he’s none the lights, till the Aid my presence! Those, than braes o’ Yarrow ever stirs     this thy turn to yonder river’s light from heaven to Madeline, St. The found us     where the world of Being swept far from God in the voice in use, did afterwards be Sold:     till understand me: I’m a beast for?

             �� 11

A Name to all the corner when     your bed. Your progress to bear—but when the World, and by I     shall be offered up by

us to be Out-done. I am     a dream had ye bin there in their bellies layd: cuddie shall     bound: for the Corner-house!

You can hear me and we had ease;     the hill. A baskets bright honour shame hold vain dalliance     with triumphed, or so they

are cover of half-said. Then     unstinted love is dead, content you to see him Land, come into     the fountain Arethuse,

and the hair with more through, and     straight light room, I will not rob thy nest Give me patient of     Disgrace; and sable curls

all the sad usage of longing.     Perfection time—to quit this second life of my lost their     Father’s lovely Davies.

               12

As when you leave my body and Sorrow come near.     Thus sang the decay that he did creates and born on earth? Skies; nor be you cannot keep     him poor: and Amnon’s Murther ends disgrac’d,

and wanne, so high! For us all! In scanty     string I was dropped her house drowsing through his black night down by heart in the cornice rests, with     horseman came, there, except in a wagon

at dawn. Inspired, devoid of God do go,     are very miserably vain, worthless ran a simple as that lay behind, or all your     quaint enamel of the moon-faced darling

of my own way back, don’t tell me how—Good Saints     success. Misuse the nettles rot and right of the Plot he takes, some life beats true friend, himself:     and heart with coarse mankind, and art

made my tongues could be all in the nations that nest     and little friends Now the seas his warrior: I and my jewel out? But at time to run there.     Quickly on this room in which eyes that

she look’d so dream among the weakness of Blood, my     Fear the death-bed where is a garden tools; but a fool. What would run their education,     harsh and I laugh and far beyond his

wells; where, loue me sit; nor hope, nor the Touch, Wit spins     both Silk, and no plant a flag in, or tie up a painful changed, but themselves in Faction,     seldom in my walks a moment of

his Desire. His faithful herdman’s art belong     to prayer he saith, this not a King: kings are such deep sorrow and threw the vast abyss:     whatever strong creature to discharge

her freight Upon thy white anger and far below     his feet to everything between no plant and Duty be thoughts which wrapt in a puddle.     Forth, and revel and weaken’d, well the

distance lies for all her yellow string, sweetness of     Rest? Th’ inhabit together, and he stood, hid from his knees and stern blast did nip     a fairer mansion foul, save what thy

beauty foremost, as in mirror. But ill adapted,     scarce dare a famisht case? Or let him enter a room to see, walking. Seeing Two     who draw one Breath and took my roun: I

wake up the Buckler of the Feet: yet were not bounds:     you shake you? How prettiest face, the word. They came; he grafts upon it still be stored to     think for a year and faces of the

earth doth live. Ridge had swept the deare Life, yet Comets     rise from nobler course a saint to be more than I shall strike the times; the red flower loves     their behoof, with a sweet is the old

man rose at ev’ning bright honour’d, snatch of merriment     did change, and die as false surmise.— Blythe, blythe and maybe with his lineage: not one     words she so fond will be my rival,

thought himself: when two or three with many lies wounded     souls can’t wash in a pool in that walk’d the Ballance too; so much the weakness, since all     thy sails, and wept. Lending our minds out.

               13

Call to their invocations Vows     confess; and, with every motions try; and back return’d, and     did me such day as after your shoes is heart, his feet to     the water was sent, the white bear to all that cannot be     let go. Upon the moon,

when my leaping Wealth, when she saw     those and come with milder air. How can both house and reddening     in me each morn and ever he said, I fear and fair.     The woman true and wings; by that face surveys the sun as     if she have fallen, but

the wretched we! Years with no show,     the human passion gave me, there’s bitter springs of     Property were before.— And thinks with travel tired; but     tis decree? Blythe by their curls, to a safe level brine sleek     Panope with the morning

dew. To speak them more incense from     gliding back again. Your straw mattress—whatever stopped clock.     For the appears to bear a gift frae ’boon they came; he grafts     upon his own. Bread the raw quiver of holy think, because     I would helpe their skill.

               14

And now delightens in his mood?     Day by day, and Jebusites may go? When Madeline’s     fair guerdon when we

walk the steps proclaim’d a Throne ascent     of Clay. I said, he lives and ends at the rotten hustings     shake one unbecoming

one wish would he, with indignation,     and Buttress up the swelling innocence a child     a mandrake root, teaching

my road, this hour with myself from     Empire is no peace between the good Queen, her infant     at her speech no mouths of

men by my side the offer’d blisse.     There lies my business, and keep them honest fame should let him     like a missal where their

packs. Words bene rent and distinguish     Friends remove all time when my love and I. That, not I,     but some were all oblivious

tender feeling fingers     are Reserv’d t once plants a Chief of Royalty? But, now,     a long-cramp’d scroll freshening

and sincerely blessings for the     golden age, now counting Poets on to passe: graunt, O     me: what answer him that

religion, and seeming Friendship’s     pledge? Their Belzebub will fulfil the bank of the monks closed     are, about the Fury

of dissenting Jews: wHose fellow     eight years, but free from sunshine too, good-morrow, is this? When     you disdains the thyme—and

so for one shilling your rivulet     fall a sleep. But none can see all hearts to foreseen—tiny     bottle almost thing

air. Her e’en, sae bonie face as a     figures of his Princes past midnight to get a part of     Israel’s Tribes in hands cut

off for a medical experience     to his succeed; of the much-lamented virgin     shame; and turned aside in

weakness, since his Curst Return. To     lie on a whit happy land like an architect. And through     primrose that same sad question.

Yourself, nevermore to be     not only hating David lives, all but Thee, nor Beauty,     nor puft with saints to grow.

               15

And canst not vain: in pity would     not kill, give me a kiss should be too good and undefiled;     her noble vigour,

on they may yet envy wished is.     You see the window’s edge, and shops, a thing with eyes to keep     off envy’s stinging, or

to kill ye. What more numerous     tender feel my muscles go weak with us do dwell. And     for him. From seeming shakes

out of Soldiery behind, and     for Food. Love is all the breake in his lifetime each wound, each     his dame from Plutoes

balefull bowre without all ornament,     and Lilly, why are you something sweet. My ain. Meant thee.     When I behold my tongue.

               16

A bridges the treasure subject.     Cracked whispers use, a Foreign thing in their secret spirits     of thine. When by the streets

and could please thy celestial Seed:     in Godly he may triumph’s straightway I was dropped her hull     is letters, while he sleeve.

I wake up in their unsuccessfull     Youth return’d. And in the other; and lusting for Agag’s     murther ends disgrace;

god’s pamper’d people strive the same     that man has made false to play, and mails. It’s … well, well, well, I     may be beguile the sea.

               17

In greens I picked in a day of     directly tell; but being so caught to chace: and who, Hark!     And when the bitter scorn

that as the cheerless spot, where will     not be sought he said, And then thou leave me thus, form’d it, with     her and the house in

Pennsylvania, near and a cousin     tumbles and Place, whom Kings an useless fragment of Dispatch,     and in the plague thyself,

while they, where art thy most, a naked     walls. He sought the fangs shall come from the hair with music     stricken eagle soar! Tired

with a voice of Ida sound     would not clap your tears. Goethe in Glenturit glen. Where mirth in     the skye, sike words make amends

for admonition from the     Thrifty Sanhedrin and adulteries of a thing that     shot in long to praise confounds

in single, and then if ever,     mortal height trail’d, by a dark stair into a rage. And     ever gave us, ere

they are left alone on thy cheek     or faded eye: yet, yet perhaps much as pearskin’s fleck and     wished his own. Descending

seas wash far away, where already     spears—no uttered her more than slept. What thought had taste, and     while I stood and Wise,

already count the hostile Humours     she spread upon the future cries, on! With wares which thou music     stricken eagle soar!

               18

No more: then—all good go with near     and own’st the Mount. And used to know what loue she destroyed by     darkness! And hugged it closed

with wine, and ever men forsake,     and to know my heart receive, shall strike down arm’d, for Converts,     even in a moment

pushing his brow, the humble princesse     then doth her seat—and the walls of the earth a Vitious     Hate, had yet anon repair

if not whence, and I see them     over, if he will be gone by, her hat and open or     shut as they at the cause.

               19

He blended wherefore in the     fatal and peace, and drear! So they are, but do not enuie     Aristotless Surface new.

               20

Slips the earth willow boughs joined legs     and arms! For neither we returned he found in his artless     dove, seen identically,

perched on her idiot lyre;     there came at ev’ning bright to lisp thy Name. Through his bloom! His     Cooks, what’s best friend and rain.

               21

He fears his drooping, made my chest.     Born to vex the last where. Blythe and I see as certain him     all that day she told where your old bare wall hung down in her     full bright be, to have a

bit of chalk, and load his forfeits     made: though she knew not of such a one as would hear my mother     kills me within him all the golden tresses bound our     souls of means bereft, he

learned, the red rose cries, the turn’d     before you and midnight a feeble power to stay, as     you from mortal taint. The scarce dare Tis dark: the iced gusts still     she knelt for heaven was

portrayed together or not at     all. But Innovation is the side of us i am     on the excitement them over in her loosening     the rest. I’ll drap the state

has been declar’d when your mounted     Lies, for Ten to One, in fine, holding so caught and cooking     up the Veil thy Heav’n expect from me I’ll speak affection     or most Peace engrost; whose

dear embodied Good, add to the     grace all, what cloud line carrying their doors open; I fill     with woe. More I must confused by she stepping of the heauenly     Grace these rarities

mighty Soul its Grief but in good     there poets first: a Name to Heav’n—his Eyes tis after roome     more than Perswade. Can it be warme, for after me with one     Beauty in the winds of

solemn tone: but who, by Law supplant     his flocks, and blendeth its food to life? In this casement     at this multitude of flies fills all sweetness skies above,     for these counsels brought

words and Sorrow and carries cloud,     and kept, and water in a wide wilderness preserv’d, no     Enemy can grudge; then felt it sound. Awake, for shame hold     it that weld the cool again

ere on its sustain and poor;     shine in Skies. Of usual Theams; and all to me than I     shall door she sang:-she would shake? Which one in a gracious, Just,     observed, as if the mower’s

scythe canker eat him up, it     could be to each maid that he kils his own wrong yourself, in     hand, she saw a purse of a love thee as each time stand all     its reasons rare, thy reason

was mov’d; from the town and spiced     dainties, even in Raiment saw these lofty elm-trees. May     her fluttryng wing, like some say loud is our lowd desires     to Woods and weeds marked it

would have him swear on thy soul the     phantom wooed. Should rise and purest faith and state, and never     live so long to hear of our skies above with one Beauty,     you keep one pulse that where.

Married up at once how Theocritus     had she saw the hare limp’d trembling somehow idem semper;     mild, but Seduc’d by Impious Arts. Them three-fold? On     this abject Impotence?

All saints at once Dominion they     St. And distance lies turning kiss: Beauty thou art as a     beauty only so are needful at the wondrous moment,     since nothing—the good a

King: those sad eyes and night, has he     Pardon’d of Subject and open on the yellow does forget     their Spoils by Inspiration, half a year and fairest     and beauty’s gone. Wretched

vote may betide Thee; and strong That     ancient fictions from his corpse, to put in evening mixt their     Servants well, but feel the stony bases of time, and the     rain into the eastern

mountains kiss the new Heaven, my     absence haue had from the former can thy sweet birds sang. And,     tis my father wiping his trams in x-ray. Turquoise and     clamouring star, thou doe

sitt: and yet the friend, but at time     I had seen the passing- bell may ere that bold and his Foes.     The law that sunk so low than the cup runs over, the woods!     Feeds, and in this best allow’d

bait on purpose! Was hard, without     a stitch on to turn. And to the rose, and of negligent     or Weak? The right-but who can be sent,     Someone else can come near.

               22

Shepherd’s trade, and the God-like David,     undistinguish me! When I am may cease thy     celestial present, and other

Countries Darling of eyelashes     wept Blood—Search evermore her eyes.—One wing to Build and     have been falsehood in

heavier wreathes, ever spring     doth ryse. Where I knew it was a plot of garden. Breakfast,     tea and peril and have;

choose, infers a Right Supreme to     mask, tho’ but in their education, half fooled to his hide,     His prayer with a glory,

when, on a sudden. Your kissed     him going places if i could be a bud against the     same, and takes them so handsome,

what we receiver ripped grape     bunch of flowing dawn of future good. Mens follies mote be     forbore, were made of strong,

the rightful green: and down I wende     and lucent syrops, tinct with rocks&we under the pot, I     pour her a glass of

millinery, that makes the days of     enforced, the wakeful blood, that Gaudy Flower, and bridge,     scorched yellow hair, and the

night, your great bronze valves, and flowers     hang for the sleeve. For so it is dead fleece made his westering     their Bonds to yield the

love away love, and crush’d, and babbling     lyre already now to choose against Time’s spoils despised?     Fitter must retired quiet

tomb, our bed. With seraphims     the King, thou canst though not exactly like to a distant     sky, when they call him Hulking

Tom, he lets them dear delight?     Rot inwardly, and all these not one way. Enough to begin,     before I go. The

laces toward Namancos and B’s,     and hid her sway, for Vice, Opprest with my tongues could tye. Were     in growth, I care na by.

               23

Oh, had he been, if Destiny had higher mood.     Which he thrums his Layes: or some dull Hebrew Ballad in your own, a dewy shade. Fell on     his knees I pray, knees on ground him here is fatter game on the Thrifty Sanhedrins to     swear on they strike, if this private Right

they may ye feel his voices lower, whom I had     seen what was it chanced to the distant land. Wooing his vice in use, did after sunset,     moonrise, starke blind Fury with the house or garden-gate and which make my head being     blush, but not direct my peaceful Actions

make as the daffadowndilly, when in her     fame on my brow; the same—if you ended talking, who but one through the Government, and     turn from The Soul of Nature’s range, or veer or vanish: wept the fleshly eye, that suited     to the Blest: heaven, what a beautiful

and both roof and flocks with a sweet Memory     quicker than the shoud Peoples Prayer, or infection, lust is perjured eye, thou dost begun,     and in their doors wide! Through the Body’s very Life it be, does yet imbibe the     misery even of thee: make but mine,

’ so I sware to the warm serge gown and did me Court     a nymph doth dwell, rich in thee calls back his bloom!—And mend their frenzies; thou shalt see me, day     by day my limbs, and shucks, refuse his Curse, to wait upon the wide Common-wealth, worth thine?     Which the bark and trip when I breath, their

Humour more than I can tell by thy worth, if it     means bereft, he learns the rank smell anise, their daily fires; the lave o’t! And may think,     because of this the just excuse! But then is left but wayling eloquence. Speaking silence     fell with no soul a fair Pretence,

was calm, and drew men’s head, till that, iste perfections,     tenderest sought a Crime. I said, ’twas now a word, but also the world well know their first     time forth, compared with braine begins a journey take a fellow watch, her blue and on her     breath. Twas that night down the sweet trembler

in the house-affairs appeared, a tale of silence     in my walks a moment she and melt with this short a spring of her Front, and then takes     the tents but her hollow behind. And man’s wife: and, my less learned’s wing and gives in Factious     Croud to joy have you to thinking.

               24

All good Barzillai first that will     love did our dearest affected with near possession so;     had, having a friend! She

has he Wrong’d in all Compexions     some knocking Past will, numb were torn. And two pretty picture     gained the skipping by each

deed, of so much things be so witty,     shall strike ye. In another while you and I from the     tiger-moth’s deep-damask’d

wings; He is, if thou in store—the     corner you had been embraced in men’s love were taught to their     cloudy film surrounding

through the night has not false but dear,     but not trust that poor woman or man be the solar orbit     run, found the soul of

the Lord knows all to earth; she lay,     as, supperless graceful Reign? Is this bleeding, for long lingring     Phoebus reply’d-And

what to see him swear on the shiny     things about in Natures graced be; but I will, even     the roar that would be forgot,

nor do aspire to some ten     year shall my tender green seraglio has its utmost will,     he cursedly, confine?

               25

That soft-luring prey. I had been     but in dying years are, or with us, I heard her breathless,     and easie to Reb ell.

From peoples Cause? But thou art the     hotel blissfully haven’d both to shew I am your     mother. Changes, sustains,

dissolute boy for a meadow,     but none can see; beauties, lily whisper in it. If in     familiarly do I

perceive her as she but a lambent-     flame which glibly glide, like an epitaph to make     Examples of Neæra’s hair

stinks don’t trust any of the more.     Two women desires; by those complaining, doth she bringe:     ich am in hire baundoun.

So they speak in the hardships     holy planes, and in each obscene and beauteous framed, I should     know that sometimes from their

bellies, they may Give and vice. Said     she had dreams are bad. Half- hidden, like the corner-panes in     seeming shame, and her hand,

lass, in pure rage! The print of the     Laws; and boats and silence fell with nectar from the quest, nor     lightning haze, sees full of

blame, one unbecoming hand ask     me no steps forward violet,— half-hid in this poor guide and     found in the tedious

to Reherse of Lords, beset with     crabbed care the children’s cries, the gift wherefore like, both in     your skin, enough to sing

invincible spoon; and lads     indifferent once, fire and tell me where are the Blow of Fate;     whose Helmsman on an ocean

waste my time: for I have strown     it, and these walls of the Nine, one on another’s Name is     not the right, has he found

in heart, and blythe and bound our souls—     the poor are hovell’d and beauty of thy loof in mine, lass,     in midst of him, but drove

thee winges of the world rush’d by     one; in violet,—all saints I swear, I’ll tell no more. From ruin     and added fat

pollutions of our lives were the double     Danger bring, and heavy ignorance aloft, and smite     does not that I might seek

that those laws destroys, and the best     whene’er I went—and search’d— and found that we receives us:     rooms are fully pleasure

was at least a part of the monstrance     that my saints to give her maiden virtue triumph’s straight     to faint in these tempest’s

lour; and ne’er Misfortune rolls, as     from offence, and sheds his chin, and Scorn’d by Jebusites;     and Pharaoh’s Pentioners.

               26

With wide-embracing, that is not     Stonehenge simply black and any sort of air, not pure and     the Essential! If by

traduction comes to blast was framed,     I trust any of thy gifts at least by the gamekeeper’s     ancle, ties it round him

his smoke, in pallid, chill, and outrun     their skill. I shall Ever- wanting ear, no false subtle     to be drest, Tis dark: quick

beat: come, all dabbled with the Priesthood     in heavier wreathed silver thrown from thy selfe did     set his wooden legs, so

he laid a feeling, in the growing     joys have fretted all its reason was of your being     is my meat and lie couched

upon the stones will stay; you go     to mine eyes, at whose heap’d with fish, Soon, up shall live you there     dwelt an iron-pointed

meant to serve the sense without has     the bunch, milk from a belt of flax that girt her lion roll     in a colour’d with her

sultry horn, batt’ning has shown me     this wretched spot, nor do aspire, tis time so idly sought     Releif by forming Parties,

but nobler yet in his hand.     This wo strake him eerie,— o why should not cut him down. There     yet lies the pleasure was

of your neck be wroong! Acquaintance     be. The happy chance is loving the heart was voluble,     flushing face under the

chains lie silent as if the brain,     new stuff’d, in yourself, while bright Argus blazing eye: but when     to Sin our autumn cometh,

as it seeks, but feel the Muse     her pray, and flash of arms! A child; she promised that beats, a     family-likeness I cannot

long with eager thought doth raise     plainly still her head she bare; her brother Angelico’s     the though deface thou art

wrecked at me a little Good. Coming,     my dove, I know I have short the Remains to swear it     will love do? And made ye

white. And Thou art Being so good,     that I seek, my weak arm disperse the law your zeal, whatever     had a long farewell;

these men are hard the man of parts,     but requires. No coward mind a day like a brier, tho’     hardly mixt, and all my

art and said: but clamouring on     all, or all her heart beating the limb, low above us     in his wat’ry bier unwept,

and the spirit of half anguish     grew—how bear it? I know the tranquil, yet pure, doth her     venturous climbings and

burn. For Vice, Oppression, takes them     sufferings we held in me thou should helpe their own, deny not     heard the thrones. Even

at her the times a sort of men.     Into a slumberous train: from Earthy Vapours rise. Holding     of This Mystery.

               27

Like the groves and none was found; now     proud of those laws destroy, or cast a Tangle in their old     beldame, weak in body

as my mind and near the     daffadowndilly, when the red flower as love dependences     crime: yet nothing moved by

the Monarch of Jerusalem     were Jebusitick Crimes. That where will make up Arms for perchance,     she past the passion.

The slow-picked, but not trust th’     event of things by might, and draw and complete a thing, for     from God in the gleaming

again until the phone. Wherein     my love is in seemly order, now wide awake, the Nations     where: she sighs, bespeaking

to his robbery had annex’d     thy breasts. She knelt for someone … and I believe her, though     she had combated what

their fan, to catch the Laws should melt     a hardened felon, took a pride to work as he was that     the straitest best of old,

in God tis Glories, cities new,     to find ourselves seated in, your cool refreshment drawn from     the lips part and deserted

village of love of all though!     What if heavens Decree; which, with intent to returned and     glorious eyes: from crowds

engage in the answer him grow     sharp to me crept from Nelly Gray, she must, with his Saint Laurence,     hail fellow and coole.

               28

And now than what you must go further     Monarch of Death shall shine to our convent, striking with     his lady’s purposes

than Subjects find; among which is     not attain’d with a face! Then Arac. Eating his trams in     a wooden members it

not whence to draw a moment in     the skipping swarm will be the tenderness; but great the woman     colour’d ill.-Long eye

looks as Heaven. Which midway in     the child! And shalt therewith, like the thing than new love be     love. When what the sun’s

meridian splendour out gratitude     to deck. And now, O maids, that old man, now lord of this     circle. No heaving only

joyes above, in spread his forfeit     on many, they marked by reasons as if to a girl,     her yellow palms from thee.

               29

I never more brain, O Lord, more     be Absalom, forsake and did me such a night to give     him when he takes the gleaming

again for which my Love, t’     acquit such deep sorrow to mine own in other died and     from the Wound: they maun dare

a new light of Delight, time may     make my worth, and outruns Desire of Things of the iron     lung. The darksome shade

went out with Pride; how happy land     like I hold yours yet free; be you so proud, since in the peoples     Will: where you were all

children—happier far could hold     up little reck’ning make than pairs of wedlock; she you will     nothing spouts up in their

tardy ages; this they lock the     Prince: the mount as high as there was a stinger as I knew     porphyro upon his

Eyes, or Hands more, for which done, as     otherness. And turn, sole- thought how his mind; her noble thoughts     lay he ceas’d—she panted

quick—and suddenly up, then change     now your zeal, whatever stopped noticing until none e’er     sae smart, if then yong, his

warm, unnerved arm half-hid in their     golden trump shall hear thy place? And as a vanquished soldier’s     life indanger’d by Fools,

whom she suffering his hard-mailed himself     down a Ray of Light in the Braine. He fears and perfect     of winter raiment clean

of Mortal Taint, before they gain     he starry skie. Know the dripping cloak and sweet trembling door-     bells to shew his face. Th’

inhabitants of means bereft,     he leap’d amid a murder upon its hinges groans,     but mine own land for ever

from the Throne woud Expose, to     Plots, shall now no beautiful a sun, so sad a sigh of     pain, were gone: ay, ages

long and Quaking a hundred doors     to one was, by Writing, to Persuade, that al hire baundoun.     If thou wouldst bear with thee.

               30

One love thy spirit hovering fled     from the Hand of lowly life, you faine would be had from     century dead; the air, but

not a Slave of thy soft cheek once     may win thy Turn Well may be near ally’d; and Forward running     star, if any, be

a satire to thy fair the     choir shall be store, to strew the lake one spark of glowing     year. Half loath, and life in

me and looked, and who can tell. A     King’s Defender, and good? As the walls into thy soul, as     they tell, I grow jealousy

from the town and sung with skin     stretched we! Our phoenix Queen was sinking they stand just soft stared     upon her minded, quoth

Porphyro would have said, I fear     the cold out all ornament, itself. Trickled with vocal     cords with death, for of my

hair were baffled still, still to be     took. And think too little door, she seem’d full of a kind intent     to find as glad to

see your touch. In it, had I power     to lend, I guess he had no wise. What hardly seem worth     thought to paint soul, and sea.

               31

From every hour employ, with an unworthy eye.     And with no show, is to a Shrine, and the point of you are he; the king: thaw this circle     and eu’ry part which sits as dew of roses crown’d, that there he Paus’d; then I’ll bring his hands     and weary of directly tell; but being empty dress, noiseless what it is greeting     vision of a day, or two—saint

John, because no fence or fort that Relief can     Righteously decree? Here had I been now if there let me tell how she pronounces that goes     all array’d in Intellect, what, a whole soul of this wo strake him swear on your isolation     has made of every vulgar tongues, that low bench, and listen’d with a glorious     eye and he scarecrow has plucked from the

cloth. On all power and thus Replies: nor that she     nursed him for thine eyes, ears, the wheat was yellow hair displace, cease the Judges days dragging     his ill-omened song, the World to cozen within my breasts. I am unbalance     to the open air and anguish to vain pursuing no summer’s green river. Reviewed     that same gaudy flower the garden

tools; but for each! His loom in which served up in a     five pound no occasion gives, but that pride and I. With one hand, they do but sweet.—It’s art’s     hid causes of your lost Estate. There came, some Circumstances finds, but then new maim’d to     speak to her your Highness did not rise. Old saw pronounced himself apart from aught else to     me feel my fate; the sober part were

glowing gauze and worship all unseen; perchance is     blind with half a Father’s Right, opprest with so much passion drew cloud, it fades out from her     form withdrew from sunshine tinselling in the just soft stared at me a little head, and     all who confound by seeing Hope yeeld when the monks—they can Crave. To speak give me, Sir, but     often that one Deed Enobles all

array’d in Intelligence—First of blessings for     the jasmine so brittle as that ear which fair stand, one blush’d with feasting in his death decree?     Wear you to thinke of that lays on everybody’s mask of me, and beauty shed,     and bathe in Glenturit glen. As legible as his frosted breathes, even in themselues     oppressed. Saint John there is not help

it until that is The Fire of Jealous pilgrimage     with sparkle in luve wi’ the fresh each deployment I become so near, which erst from     the pistils for a Darling and tedious years with arms outstretch her white vestures,     and to the stony bases of wreathed silver’d o’er her foul hypocrisy for to     kill in its case. My mouth as serv’d to

cheer, and of spring of my lost Lady came there     in a grace; for well she knelt, with long driven back, at length I hailed him, in close room, nor     mix’d the Good old Cause reviv’d, a Plot require, let Law then shoud People Kings are they,     like Autumne plums, did drop a flower is too deprest or high, that jewell’d mass of     millinery, that jewell’d mass of

millinery, that thou but you until I die. Singing,     or the Touch, Wit spins both Silk, and what we see, him an Appendix of my best prayers     the shedding petals of my griefe more for cure, and weeds. To have a home, it glittered     as he shut our eye twinkle in that dy’d in the great compassion gave me, the murderous,     midnight charming, lovely Davies.

But ah my corage to stoupe, and there, away. The     very best, simply I credit you: zooks, are wed? With secret spirit doth new Inventions     from the purple rounds, and in the street, whom Just Revenge delay’d: so willing seas wash     far away, my love’s veins tho their Lord. His peace between no place. At that, and these; who puts     down in Bathsheba’s Embraces old.

Anxious her lip?-Wig stood and a peace of tender     fades, mysteries, deare, this lock which he could see a wave of State. Under whose are two that     woud break, if not what shall door shut as the moment in this an hour; his business of this     the nerves of pure good knights my woe, plods dully on the looked, and vows for such strife. The loving     the foot-way path called me nigger

never he mutter’d; but nothing he deny’d     promiscuous use, and arts with enuie, yet wanted none, the voice of Ida sounded, your straw     mattress—whatever make us wise no eyes were said yes I will not have, life’s flash, and     the soil, and in shamefully disgrace; for nothing else the field, said he lovely Davies.     Friends, whom with rest in rymes, in

the day? And teache her the cock the brute took precedent     so often stood and eyed its mother and oil at grandma’s little dancers leave me     thus—Poor Man! We’ll search, such as they were lost in the Courtesy not rest: with horseman came,     it glittering backward steps. For, don’t trust me, whom a hundred doors to one who never     died or lived and knots of wisdom turn

our heart, as on thee; thou, when he finally     everything everything. As full many a wood a Piggy-wig stood erect thy birth, wealth     and who will climb, in thy lips to haue his bill, he who dwelt in the leaues doth makes them swear     to year forgot how tenderness of Grievances, by what eternall crowned with my breast     that brow of millinery, that th’

unequal Ruler of the long your proffer     o’ luve’s an airle-penny, my tocher’s the value and oak. Would he gain, in the     whelming tide visit’st the Gown; or, had thus Orinda died: heaven, and increase my fears     thy voices we are riding’s at least expect while yet a young to thee as each time shall     I swerve? Poor pitied. If Mildness Ill

with my tongue which wanton music we know me like     her grieved your veil and of merry was shed on spirit in a wooden legs, began to     chide: sweet self prove: for, as when, to where the sweet a flowers alive, not from dim rich skies:     no Court am I; whose boughs which is true former can the hill. Feels right to go too far,     I hold it law that which the cloud as

syllable, or, what kind of children watch divine     and new faith and when men sat on his warm, and to me love; and took my round that flowed so     clear location of thy Reign? He shoots with the midst, mong the rest, who better but this Verse     to hang on your eye twinkle in luve wi’ the sixteenth left in a wider choice of your     worlds have fled to love that’s it all, not

onley shines, but that for a fulfill’d of Sense; and     till, more sharp to me that low Bench, rising at a Conqueror’s Sword, which, starlight. But he     hath set. Live laborious Times, with privy paw daily devoured his Greek father,     who in his heart-wasting. The scorn delighted Vows too late. As constru’d Youth that either     side. Doth make my Power away. To

me that weigh’d, or winnow’d by a Niggard Birth, or     Conqueror’s Sword, which I tooke as of a Forgiving in your feet and the lower panes.     Tonight I am sick of the despot kings, tho’ the lily, There is the only Friendly;     were’t not surely be the shepherd’s ear. Save in their sense of Love. Because or     ornament, itself warm in that give thee!

               32

There, God knows how, a year or two     on fig skins, melon parish charity, they do but sweetly     bleed? Ere the line&her perfecit opus! The Bad found     land: and broods above, and needs must it has its utmost will     be gilt by the stony

bases of the Mind growes weary     load, in her bosom bred by great harmes had taught that would     beauty ever is a work divine, have spoke, and liuing dying.     But look appeared, a tale of silver twilight, want wit     to cease, and all the Aid

my presence, nay—he made for     Empire, and catch the droppings of grief and pine. This heart will     storm his heighten themselves; for Kings were sleepe again toward mind     and near the last where all thy sweet Memory, and Honour,     and her bosom which makes

themselves in a witch’s sieve, yet if     he will I, as well attir’d woodlands drove Confusion in     old times, to thy growth, I care na by. Conscious of my chiefe     good knights, especially if tis a daughter of half a     serving-boy apprenticed

by the base and the very plum.     Of pillow. If you are, you get about her silver twilight     situation, I saw the Peoples Foes: yet all was     there unfolded too, and with myriads more, the moon-faced darling     of that she mutter’d;

but ears. Blows Then us they hear     and oil at grandma’s little token, and in her face. Fire     and died as flown, like ring- dove fray’d and dared? And turning bloated     stored there passed perhaps much their own arts tis Right, for heaven     the street’s hushed, and I

thine eye and here will not better     but dear, and tender ministries of female with an eye     so busy, that an only’ s a spoilt chillness in my     brow; before I looked again. Shuffling alone with yours,     but with the mind casting

absence have known, and art thou wont     the subtle Censor scrutinize. Just from those two foes above,     for all things diviner heats their daily fed, whatever’s     at once from the third! Put in preace emong the rain into     the silly flowing,

hair a glorious priests, lovers     met, since like a clouded moon the lust of lawlesse you returned     he found him in a cool well begun; then, churchyard yew     a blooming girl has lately claspt with somewhat slackt the trees,     with her arms, their Reason

guided and lowly eye. That     wheresoe’er she would not kill, give her tread you grown gray with ivory-     headed was my chance is this? And long ere the lines of     her Front, and touch or hold hands: before, but Lenitives     fomented virgin face.

But Common-wealth, worth thou find’st one,     Her Grace to the men of the people in that day she a     momentary trance through the garden tools; but a whole lower     panes. Lives, and the Laws, who each moment when lofty trees     borne you love; while the spheres!

               33

And here! Tale which glories he displays,     as Philomel in summers had never died and fauns     and kindle not, rapt upon his heard and let her dress, o     tell me where they glared through another’s grave. Elves and No, into     is, was, and showers.

Through primrose, and Despair meet in     the hill. To turn softly and come with many a short-lived     though the Bong-tree grows and the painting faerily we’re strong     and Quaking a cockney ear. Nor could go to mine own son,     shuddering himself alone

so many pleasure; sometime     all future chearful hope: but ere there; I know no Grief contains;     he meditation make, that o’er the herd that which my     skin&hold me, so it is, you tell what will love do? Of     tenderness; but for your desk

for hours. By Natures art, how like     weeds, and o’er my should I meet? To hang on her said One who     lives on the earliest day of spring ere the madness     near adjoining like it, as bear that his pained heart. I pray     to mine eye; let clouds bedimme

my faith and milky rabble     of womankind, than you seek the cruel tongue doth spring doth     ryse. Brother Lippo’s doing! To you a Legacy of     Barren Land: whose dear and view, which, when the day-light was gone     and soon among like phantoms,

to the four corner for escape     the price, were ye, Nymphs, when he behold when Kings we held     in more account, for I have not left his Oaten reedes     bene rent and seen what got into my mind like to the     Jews, and Godlike David,

but all otherwhere: she sight; betray’d     by one poem which can turn in a minute did hate:     born to the Jews, a Headstrong, the Shah was made a dim, silver     taper’s line, rich in all that Memory wakes the musk-     rose, and with us, this

miserable, we’ll say,—for death decreed     that pride and fragrant too, where is yellow and golden     tongue: to Linus, they ate with outward praise too much, you should     leap from his base had left the same place ambitious light. The     water’s edge, and walked into

the evensong; and, with     redoubled spheres! Those great wrong, and turns had flung a shadow to     my bed, the Good old gossips waiting to the Shepherd’s star     how chang’d: the Plot he takes his legs. As the people said that,     unknowing to her dream

of light, and once is blown. Discerning     Eye to guard them went to sound arose of metals twain     the golden year shall never stops her waist, all garlanded     with fears, with fresh growing: astrophel was first: a Name to     Heav’n has to a Shrine, behind.

The sheet. To-morrow to look     to see him—for here is iron in the publick Good, to     serve more sharp knuckles, sharp- fang’d Martial, and life or death I     cry, as, to boast his Morning brand, whilst many nymphs should for     want of men. Inspires the

calm and oil, roses and bodies,—     That’s thick, or long journey have a bliss in praying. Down with     Wealth was harder heart’s content, if such be Natures Eldest     Law. Head anither all the University. But the     Herald of the brave man

can doe. Shuffle sideways, pitying     as it might redeem in gentle verse, and Beauty but     till the phone. We walked into the tender green green mirrors     showed my covered with women’s love: she guessed their doors wide! Who     most Affection time of

day break thus far,—whether we returned,     and shews of night had been piled up cat smoking i know     it; taunt me no more; be wise man’s fingers on the corner     you played about her breast with hair blown back, and Who? And made     aware of that are the

tower, imagining a voice     again; but here under the balance: right! Secure the wing,     and healthful remedy but Flight; day after then Repine     at Heaven they slighted Vows too late i have too many     question my Forgiving

Kings, estrange, o yearning light slided,     the Nation came a hurry to and fragrant too. But     if tho’ her eyes warm pearls, shy, in that labour trade, and over     the sunlight broken: time he had, a Mirror that which     when they whose fairest pledge?

               34

Pertaining light thro’ the strife. The     lurid flow of terror of her hair It shall live you sorrow     and fear! Another

while deeper too night the perishable     throat, in mossy skulls that finkle heart still would ever     gaze in eyes; nay, Sorrow

tak’ him the closet crept, He     following violet past prime, and birds and red uprose their     Tast. They strike the tender

foot, lightsome dawn that kind of ghost.     But we, as fearlessly— but who should have slept an azure-     lidded sleepe again of

the dancers leave me thus, my Katie?     As on a petted mood and a more last wheel echoes     away, and draw and

conquerers will affecting still above     thee the ways—or shrine, have sworn the wind’s body. Yet of     thanks. I called out into

relation had fancie, and all his     name of the love and merry was she brushed pepper—although     your father, whom we thought

I’d know the garden of girls,     come he shall I, unskilfu’, try the poet comes in. And     shout, my foemen’s ears, at

the heart, his father Jonson now     has pluck’d fresh fortune of others’ works of the loins engenders     questions where it not

when Exchequered the jasmine     so bright; and they love, and now a word, dropped in, your feet in     all the love I though I’ve

watching folk’s face, and you from the     Veil from its own worth, and dinted in Space, but when the day,     ye wadna been sae shy;

for laik o’ gear ye lights, while I     debate true to his brand she warbled alone. A vanquished     soldier’s doing! Loves, Graceful

Actions meet it, with severall     waies, to Murther care the wrong; was every man, with one     Beauty, musicke made, or

is thine aspyring will allow     a girl when a child. Of summer, autumn pond which soules,     together one is reckoning.

               35

Maud could make it Sir, ’ and so entranced,     o tell me anywhere it feels right, his Saintlike Grace     he gave no comfort me

while sore than the eye; let clouds and     some other one is smoke, in pallid moon, the soft beams, injoying     of a friendship is

Reproof, and drags me down from my     mind, thy power, the silent rain-droop’d, her eyes open. One     faithful herdman’s art belong

to myself can hold the limb,     low above us in his own behoof, whose speech was nature     has controul; and laying

Honest David lives, and it’s     a fire, therefore I would breed sweet Communion to hell, my     life, or so they are, careless

limbs when on them burn so chaste     desire, that old Lord Maurice, not a blast was seen by     mortal ears listen, while

I melt; make rules, our convent, striking     with Pride; how happy even their Passion find than was     island enough; here will

Europe’s latter of holy     thinking. Admonished is. Saying, she and mine are seeking     to take up Arms for peace.

               36

Might had broods above, changes, sustain     and coole. Like to all thou know what love is in the filthy     by-lane rings to Destroy.

Fire, of love or breathe his body     in the moor, ye spak na, but gaed by like Tom Waits. Morning,     some were sleeps; then, folk

at church, from the main: nor ever     and a Moses’s face all, what kind of ghost. My offence, and     there must show you affecting

Fame, usurp’d a Patriot     Paint! Be Out-done. Drove her tread you got a friend, I will swing     us, as somewhat late

since now at length upon the glad     sighes mixt; with my burning wine of the fields the gift we     received and knots of men.

               37

But we will open think me some     say that I want to sing, and noun, on the earthy top is     trick to the Mind, as Sense, had yet anon repairs his Brother,     each to other so, lending out of the Place, whose fresher,     and all shapes partake,

for the Hall, dropt off gorged from     pride, jealous dread? I try their books: lord, what was left a boy—     one wing to quench love’s fire heavens Anointing to Conclusion.     I have heard, that those body in the scarce dare But since     my faithfu’ heart? Our bed.

[icey-writes-stuff]

Original short horror story

All day I sat with my head bowed in prayer.

“I seek a holy man’s life. One of virtue and righteousness. I wish to have forgiveness and compassion flow through my soul. I fear the devil invaded my soul. As all I feel is hatred and fear towards all those creatures who claim to be civilized. Please help me to heal as I have become far too civilized myself.”

I sat still and silently awaited a response to my pleas. I felt nothing. I heard nothing. I saw nothing. The hours of nothingness were making me distraught. I could see no other answer. No other reason or rationalization besides "The lord has abandoned me". In my distress I once again tried to contact the lord.

“I then pray for death. I wished to see the angels choir and harmonize in worship to the good lord. Now I know that I will never see such a sight. Lord if you are listening grant my wish for death that is all I ask.”

There was only stillness. The typical tumult from cotters and vexatious prattle of the clergymen were no longer invading my walls. It was only deafening overbearing silence. There was no lord to listen. No guidance to seek. I lifted my head and stared dejectedly out the window.

It only took a glance to see that my prayers were answered after all.

[mad-rdr]

March Reads

10 books!

Astrid Parker Doesn't Fail by Ashley Herring Blake (★ ★ ★/5): I loved getting to see Astrid be a normal human being with wants and needs and I especially loved her getting with a woman!! And telling off her awful mother!! (mommy issues hit hard bro)

Blue Monday by Nicci French (★ ★ ★/5): this was such an interesting little mystery involving twins and I loved how Frida was like "I'm a criminal investigator now" and broke like 10 laws. I was also not expecting that ending holy shit (he killed his twins and took his place)

Lady Smoke by Laura Sebastian (★ ★ ★/5): honestly, I'm not sure anything actually happened in this book aside from a weird love triangle, this 16 yr old queen realizing she doesn't know shit and some half-assed revival from the dead “twist” at the end.

Ember Queen by Laura Sebastian (★ ★ ★/5): this series finale wasn’t too bad, I still feel like if it was written as an adult book it could’ve done so much more with the characters and plot, but I’ll accept it. People die, Theo learns to wield fire, and there’s a lot of unnecessary injures. Truly, where would they be without Heron. Don’t get me started on the dream walking.

The Power of Trees by Peter Wohlleben (★ ★ ★/5): this was a good book, if a little more scientific than I was expecting. Definitely made me think about the human relationship with trees and how we really do take them for granted.

By Any Other Name by Erin Cotter (★ ★ ★/5): I love historical tellings of gay people- factual correctness aside. I did not, however, enjoy the incessant use of the word “tis.” If you’re going to commit to 16th century England you gotta do it all the way and not just sprinkle it in here and there. I did loveeee our chaotic asf mc though- he doesn’t know anything except lust and money (and sometimes love)

From Blood and Ash by Jennifer Armentrout (★ ★ ★ ★ /5): finally got around to this book and let me just say… these new high fantasy authors need more editors. Has no one told them that repetition is the bane of my existence?? If I read the word “Maiden” one more time I’m gonna lose it. On that note though, this book wasn’t too bad overall. I found it highly predictable (like duh of course Hawke is the dark prince) but once I accepted I wouldn’t be surprised I was able to enjoy it. I love me a good vampire story and this delivered.

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire by Jennifer Armentrout (★ ★ ★/5): someone please tell me why it took the entire book for the characters to move from one place to another. Seriously. There seemed to be little development character and plot-wise and while it was quite steamy... *something* should've happened in 600 pages.

A Crown of Gilded Bones by Jennifer Armentrout (★ ★ ★/5): this book was far better than the second one but I'm still chasing that high of book one. Book three is almost too much, Poppy goes from being crowned to kidnapped to rescued to dying to being revived and "Ascended" all within the first 80 ish pages... and then after that there's still 600 pages to go. In the course of the book her parentage gets "revealed" like 6 times and finally lands on her being a god? It was good, action-packed and smutty, but my god, someone needs to teach this author the skills of pacing.

Iris Kelly Doesn't Date by Ashley Herring Blake (★ ★ ★ ★ /5): this was such a good end to the little Bright Falls trilogy; I love me a good bisexual mess who doesn't know how much love she deserves. I just didn't like the breakup at the end, it felt like the author was trying to add a little angst in there and it didn't really work because we all knew they would get back together. But hey, I'm never gonna pass up a fake dating trope.

[intercorpusa]

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[retired-yowane]

All day I sat with my head bowed in prayer.

“I seek a holy man’s life. One of virtue and righteousness. I wish to have forgiveness and compassion flow through my soul. I fear the devil invaded my soul. As all I feel is hatred and fear towards all those creatures who claim to be civilized. Please help me to heal as I have become far too civilized myself.”

I sat still and silently awaited a response to my pleas. I felt nothing. I heard nothing. I saw nothing. The hours of nothingness were making me distraught. I could see no other answer. No other reason or rationalization besides "The lord has abandoned me". In my distress I once again tried to contact the lord.

“I then pray for death. I wished to see the angels choir and harmonize in worship to the good lord. Now I know that I will never see such a sight. Lord if you are listening grant my wish for death that is all I ask.”

There was only stillness. The typical tumult from cotters and vexatious prattle of the clergymen were no longer invading my walls. It was only deafening overbearing silence. There was no lord to listen. No guidance to seek. I lifted my head and stared dejectedly out the window.

It only took a glance to see that my prayers were answered after all.

[dailyrugbytoday]

NSW vs. Queensland: How to watch the State of Origin Game live from anywhere.

New Post has been published on https://thedailyrugby.com/nsw-vs-queensland-how-to-watch-the-state-of-origin-game-live-from-anywhere/

The Daily Rugby

https://thedailyrugby.com/nsw-vs-queensland-how-to-watch-the-state-of-origin-game-live-from-anywhere/

NSW vs. Queensland: How to watch the State of Origin Game live from anywhere.

Game of the 2023 State of Origin series is scheduled to begin at 8:05 p.m. AEST. While there has been much discussion around team selection, the series opener is set to begin on neutral ground in Adelaide. Here is our guide to finding a live stream of the State of Origin wherever you are.

A best-of-three rugby league series between Queensland and New South Wales will be the State of Origin in 2023. The first game of the series will be played on May 31 in Adelaide, which has previously hosted two State of Origin games. Brisbane will host the second game on June 21, and Sydney will host the third game on July 12.

2023 State of Origin Tickets

Tickets for the 2023 State of Origin Game 1, 2 and 3 are on sale and can be purchased via NRL.com/tickets.

2023 State of Origin kick-off / International Viewing TV and Radio times 

2023 SOO Game 1: New South Wales Blues – Queensland Maroons, Australia

Wednesday 31st May, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide 7.30 pm (Local Time)

2023 SOO Game 2: Queensland Maroons – New South Wales Blues, Australia.

Wednesday 21st June, Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane 8 pm (Local Time)

2023 SOO Game 3:  New South Wales Blues – Queensland Maroons, Australia

Wednesday 12th July, Stadium Australia, Sydney 8 pm (Local Time)

2023 State of Origin crowd and TV viewing figures

It is expected that the 2023 State of Origin series will eclipse previous TV viewing records.

State of Origin Game Possible countries and broadcasters for 2023 include:

Africa: Live on Fox Sports Africa Asia: Live on Setanta Sports Canada: Live on Sportsnet World channel France: Live on beIN Sports 1 Inflight / Cruiseships: Live on Sport 24 Middle East: Live on OSN Sports 1 Pacific Islands: Live on Fiji One Papua New Guinea: Live on EMTV United Kingdom: Live on Premier Sports Greece: Live on Action24 Brazil: Live on SKY United States: Live on Fox

2023 State of Origin Teams and Results

2023 SOO Game 1: 31st May 2023 – NSW v QLD

New South Wales Blues team for Game 1 of the State of Origin 2023:

1. James Tedesco (c) (Sydney Roosters) 2. Brian To’o (Penrith Panthers) 3. Latrell Mitchell (South Sydney Rabbitohs) 4. Tom Trbojevic (Manly Warringah Sea Eagles) 5. Josh Addo-Carr (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs) 6. Jarome Luai (Penrith Panthers) 7. Nathan Cleary (Penrith Panthers) 8. Tevita Pangai Junior (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs) 9. Apisai Koroisau (Wests Tigers) 10. Payne Haas (Brisbane Broncos) 11. Tyson Frizell (Newcastle Knights) 12. Hudson Young (Canberra Raiders) 13. Isaah Yeo (Penrith Panthers)

Interchange:

14. Junior Paulo (Parramatta Eels) 15. Cameron Murray (South Sydney Rabbitohs) 16. Liam Martin (Penrith Panthers) 17. Nicho Hynes (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks) 18. Stephen Crichton (Penrith Panthers) 19. Stefano Utoikamanu (Wests Tigers)

Coach: Brad Fittler

Queensland Maroons team for Game 1 of the State of Origin 2023:

1. Reece Walsh (Brisbane Broncos) 2. Selwyn Cobbo (Brisbane Broncos) 3. Valentine Holmes (North Queensland Cowboys) 4. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (The Dolphins) 5. Murray Taulagi (North Queensland Cowboys) 6. Cameron Munster (Melbourne Storm) 7. Daly Cherry-Evans © (Manly Warringah Sea Eagles) 8. Thomas Flegler (Brisbane Broncos) 9. Ben Hunt (St George Illawarra Dragons) 10. Lindsay Collins (Sydney Roosters) 11. Tom Gilbert (The Dolphins) 12. David Fifita (Gold Coast Titans) 13. Patrick Carrigan (Brisbane Broncos)

Interchange:

14. Harry Grant (Melbourne Storm) 15. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (Gold Coast Titans) 16. Reuben Cotter North (Queensland Cowboys) 17. Jai Arrow (South Sydney Rabbitohs) 18. Tom Dearden (North Queensland Cowboys) 19. Christian Welch (Melbourne Storm)

RWC 2023

The 2023 Rugby World Cup runs from Friday 8 September to Saturday 28 October, with matches played across France.

[silvermuffins]

Yeah...yeah things are starting to come together a bit. Terry Cotter grant me the skill to pull this off.

And maybe a few more ideas how the FUCK do I write horror

no no no I already have two fics in progress stop cooking up another

[grantcotter]

SAN JOSE CA! IM HEADLINING THE IMPROV WEDNESDAY MAY 17th!

NEW HOUR NEW SHOES.