A Change of Voice

I heard a Lady near my door

Talking to one she knew:

Was this the voice I used to hear,

So tender, soft and true?

Was this the voice that charmed me once,

Before the marriage vow?

But why should Man, securely bound,

Except that accent now!

Why should she charm him as a wife,

Knowing she has him chained for life;

And why should she call him her 'Honey'-

Knowing the wretch has no more money?