He said that I was proud, mother, that I looked for rank and gold,

He said I did not love him—he said my words were cold;

He said I kept him off and on, in hopes of higher game—

And it may be that I did, mother; who hasn't done the same?

I did not know my heart, mother—I know it now too late;

I thought that I without a pang could wed some nobler mate;

But no nobler suitor sought me—and he has taken wing,

And my heart is gone, and I am left a lone and blighted thing.

You may lay me in my bed, mother—my head is throbbing sore;

And, mother, prithee, let the sheets be duly aired before;