The Scarlet Courtesan Poem by Christian Muller

How brightly shone the palace chandeliers
Within the freezing night. And Constantine from far
And bitter wars had made his way to meet the Tsar.
With secret letter in his breast, for fear.
Of prying hands within the wicked night. So queer
He found the feast and revelry. Foods from afar
Did line the silver halls, which rang with songs bizarre.
And 'cross the waltz he rudely marched. But then came near.
A Ruso courtesan. Who drew him to a dance.
So warm he felt within her arms. And in her glance
He sank within her scarlet eyes. But with behest
From duty fled he from her grasp. Then made his way
To meet the fearsome Tsar. But in his pocket lay
An empty void. No letter lay within his breast.