It ceased to hurt me, though so slow 1
I could not feel the Anguish go－
But only knew by looking back－
That something－had benumbed the Track－
Nor when it altered, I could say, 5
For I had worn it, every day,
As constant as the Childish frock－
I hung upon the Peg, at night.
But not the Grief－that nestled close 9
As needles－ladies softly press
To Cushions Cheeks－
To keep their place－
Nor what consoled it, I could trace－13
Except, whereas 'twas Wilderness－
It's better－almost Peace－
I could not feel the Anguish go－
But only knew by looking back－
That something－had benumbed the Track－
Nor when it altered, I could say, 5
For I had worn it, every day,
As constant as the Childish frock－
I hung upon the Peg, at night.
But not the Grief－that nestled close 9
As needles－ladies softly press
To Cushions Cheeks－
To keep their place－
Nor what consoled it, I could trace－13
Except, whereas 'twas Wilderness－
It's better－almost Peace－
(F.421/J.584)
[1] It:: a bustle, hoop.
[3, 4] back, obscured:: the bustle changes a lady's back lower shape.
[5] altered:: the bustle's size will not change.
[13] consoled:: supported.
The Patent Adjustable Bustle, figured below, recommends itself on grounds of health as well as convenience. The size can be regulated by means of a lace passing across the back. It is made either separate or attached to the skirt. Its pliableness and elasticity are such, that while the whole garment may be compressed into a small bonnet box, it instantly expands on being released from pressure. ─ Harper's Magazine (1858)