Ah but many sad years ago
My life was burdened with woe
But the seens [sic] through which I passed
Are now with gladness overcast.
I was born in your earth to await
The coming of a cruel fate
Yes, I a true and loving wife
But mine was a sad darkened life.
Oh a life which seemed to last
To me the future, as the past,
And as the lone hours drifted by
My only prayer, Oh could I die.
Cruel is the assassins hand
Yet so many are in your land
Day by day as a fearful flood
Hearts have flowed in tears of blood.
My own the pain, I could not tell
But I can say I know full well
My soul ne'er found sweet peace one day
And with earth I could no longer stay.
My form was sold to doctors three
So you have all that's left of me
I come to greet you in white mull
You that prizes my lonely skull.
I can cause you many bright hours
Strew your path in purest flowers
For your kindness tendered me
I will always guard and guide thee.
You may call me your Sister Belle
My other name I ne'er can tell
They tell me it is for the best
To let earth's troubles be at rest.
Tis I who have often raped [sic]
In your quiet room have taped [sic]
And have impressed on your mind
Many inquiries of me so kind.
By Blind Harry for a beautiful lady who gives the name Belle.