The morn was fair, the month was…

The morn was fair, the month was May, The daisies pied were springing; I left my cot, and on my way, Beguil'd the time with singing; When Damon met me in the grove, And told me I was clever; But 'stead of whisp'ring tales of love, Cry'd, kiss me now or never.

Amaz'd, I like a statue stood, Then in pretended passion, Ask'd if he thought a speech so rude Would gain my approbation? He smiling answered, ah! dear maid, That frown's a proof of favour; I felt 'twas true, and faintly said, Well, leave me now for ever.

The lad was of the saucy kind, Tho' beauteous as may be; And had the proverb in his mind, "Faint heart ne'er won fair lady" His lips against my check he press'd, Cry'd here I'll dwell for ever; My flutt'ring heart spoke thro' my breast, He will win me now or never.

He swore he ne'er should live at peace, Till my consent was granted; If I would wed, his cares would cease, 'Twas all he wish'd and wanted. I never met in any swain, Such love and truth together; So, left he should not ask again, Said, take me now or never.