Some gallant may buy her and love her a bit;
One half of the women in marriages sought
Are simply and plainly and formally bought.
IX.
"Dear father," said Linda, "step out for a while,
I'll think the thing over, and merit your smile;
For if what I'd bring would relieve you the least,
I'll bring it myself, though I'm sold like a beast."
Chorus.—Tending to deprecate any imputation on the maiden's refinement that might follow her use of that last expression:
The culture of woman, as known in the South,