The Orkney Maiden

It wasn't always like this. Sometimes, when I look at him, I think I can still see the young, handsome sailor who lured me inland with the promise of eternal love. And yet he's beaten me so many times I no longer feel any pain- only this dreadful numbness that spreads inch by inch over my bruised limbs. Today I can't help smiling, though, even as he towers over me and the blows rain on my body. He'd never guess I've found the place where he's keeping my sealskin.