An unnamed farm worker meets a friend called 'Melia. It seems as if they haven’t seen each other for a long time. 'Melia used to work on the farm but doesn't anymore. The farm worker is surprised not only to see her in town but to see a great change in her, apparently for the better. 'Melia, when she was at the farm, used to have only the most basic clothing and now she's dressed very well and even has jewellery. She also talks differently and appears to be much more refined. 'Melia's physical appearance has improved too as she looks much prettier. The worker comments that 'Melia also seems happier with a much more positive outlook on life. The irony is that 'Melia - which she herself makes clear at the start and in every following stanza - is "ruined" - a prostitute.