What the Wolf Really Said to Little Red Riding Hood

<SPAN name="startofbook"></SPAN> <h2> WHAT THE WOLF REALLY SAID TO LITTLE RED RIDING-HOOD </h2> <p> Wondering maiden, so puzzled and fair,<br/> Why dost thou murmur and ponder and stare?<br/> "Why are my eyelids so open and wild?"<br/> Only the better to see with, my child!<br/> Only the better and clearer to view<br/> Cheeks that are rosy and eyes that are blue.<br/> <br/> Dost thou still wonder, and ask why these arms<br/> Fill thy soft bosom with tender alarms,<br/> Swaying so wickedly? Are they misplaced<br/> Clasping or shielding some delicate waist?<br/> Hands whose coarse sinews may fill you with fear<br/> Only the better protect you, my dear!<br/> <br/> Little Red Riding-Hood, when in the street,<br/> Why do I press your small hand when we meet?<br/> Why, when you timidly offered your cheek,<br/> Why did I sigh, and why didn't I speak?<br/> Why, well: you see&mdash;if the truth must appear&mdash;<br/> I'm not your grandmother, Riding-Hood, dear!<br/></p> <div style="break-after:column;"></div><br />