Read "The Masquerade" by Ella Wheeler Wilcox online for free on Textopian. Full text with search, annotations, highlights, and AI-powered reading aids.
Look in the eyes of trouble with a smile, / Extend your hand and do not be afraid. / 'Tis but a friend who comes to masquerade. / And test your faith and courage for awhile.
Fly, and he follows fast with threat and jeer. / Shrink, and he deals hard blow on stinging blow, / But bid him welcome as a friend, and lo! / The jest is off-the masque will disappear.