The numerous couplets of the American rhyme are completely in the ballad style. A "paper of pins" is substituted for a "pennorth of pins." The "easy-chair" is modern, but the verse itself ancient, combing golden hair being a world-old occupation of beauties. The gown "trimmed with golden thread," or "set off with a golden crown," refers to the attire of olden times. The mediæval bride wore a crown on the head and flowing hair; a costume also mentioned in old ballads as the usual dress of a demoiselle of rank arrayed for the dance.
"I'll give to you a paper of pins,
And that's the way my love begins;
If you will marry me, me, me,
If you will marry me."
"I don't accept your paper of pins,
If that's the way your love begins;
For I won't marry you, you, you,
For I won't marry you."
"I'll give to you an easy-chair,
To sit in and comb your golden hair.
"I'll give to you a silver spoon,
To feed your babe in the afternoon.
"I'll give to you a dress of green,
To make you look like any queen.[41]
"I'll give to you the key of my heart,
For you to lock and never to part.
"I'll give to you the key of my chest,
For you to have money at your request."
"I do accept the key of your chest,
For me to have money at my request;
And I will marry you, you, you,
And I will marry you."
"Ha, ha, ha, money is all,
And I won't marry you at all;
For I won't marry you, you, you,
For I won't marry you."