English poem
Old Valentines
by Carolyn Wells (1862–1942)
How rapidly Time shifts the scene. Again it is St. Cupid’s day, And I must send to my Rosine A gorgeous valentine bouquet. Last year I sent the same to May— Heigh-ho! I’ve led a blithe career— They’d make a rather long array, My valentines of yester-year.
In years beginning with 18— I was unfettered, free, and gay Each maiden seemed to me a queen, And to each one my court I’d pay. Now I’m engaged. Ah, well-away! Rosina is a perfect dear, But I would better not display My valentines of yester-year.
No memories shall come between My love and me. And I’ll essay To keep her life calm and serene, And love her when she’s old and gray: Her lightest wish I will obey, But still—I hope she’ll never hear Those verses that I wrote in play, My valentines of yester-year.