On the Bill Clinton / Monica Lewinsky scandal, 18 March 1998.








The legal definition of infidelity


has varied from time to time.


Previously permitted sexual mores


in another age become a crime.





A libidinous king may share his bed


but he rarely risks his throne.


Power may be the ultimate aphrodisiac


but it is a draught best drunk alone.





Today, when defrocked prelates


and randy peers are in short supply,


the Press’ natural target must be one


pre-eminent in the public eye.





Hitting any man below the belt is palpably unfair.


Perhaps the American Press should apply


A Nelsonian eye, and like the silent Mrs. C.,


let sleeping presidents lie.








[Unpublished.]