What's O'Clock/In a Powder Closet

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IN A POWDER CLOSET
Early Eighteenth Century
My very excellent young person, Since Fate has destined you to play the rôle of coiffeur, You will permit that I admire your quite unsurpassed skill, Together with your polished, if a trifle over-pronounced, manners, Without by an inch lessening the distance Which the hazard of birth and the artifice of custom Have placed between us. My mirror tells me that you are a personable man; But, indeed, it is my own image in this same mirror Which most occupies my attention. That such a subject as I offer Engages you to put forth your best efforts ​Is only natural; That I should remain indifferent is equally so. Be satisfied that the exigencies of your profession Admit you to privileges from which a more exalted station would exclude you. My maid will, I am sure, be most happy to accommodate herself to your wishes, She is a worthy girl and entertains a not unjustifiable belief in my continued recognition of her services. The spray of heliotrope is well placed. Do you think a patch just here—at the corner of the eye? Ah, yes. It adds perceptibly. You are, Sir, a consummate artist. To-morrow at four I shall expect you.
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