English poem
In Maiden Meditation
by H. P. Nichols (1850–1940)
"Were I a man," quoth Mistress Jane, "Ah, would I were!—I'd drink champagne And smoke—be dashing in my dress— And let my roving eyes express A love I never entertain.
"With rose lips near, I'd not refrain From kissing. I would e'er maintain That woman's 'No' is often 'Yes,' Were I a man.
"Yet while I muse, it seems quite plain That as I am I can't complain, For Tom and Jack—they both confess— Adore me. So I rather guess I'd wish I were a girl again, Were I a man!"