ROSETTE

YES! I know you’re very fair;

And the rose-bloom of your cheek,

And the gold-crown of your hair,

Seem of tender love to speak.

But to me they speak in vain,

I am growing old, my pet—

Ah, if I could love you now

As I used to love Rosette!

In your carriage every day

I can see you bow and smile;

Lovers your least word obey,

Mistress you of every wile.

She was poor, and went on foot,

Badly drest, you know,—and yet,—

Ah! if I could love you now

As I used to love Rosette!

You are clever, and well known

For your wit so quick and free;—

Now, Rosette, I blush to own,

Scarcely knew her A B C;

But she had a potent charm

In my youth:—ah, vain regret!

If I could but love you now

As I used to love Rosette!

Béranger.