Scotish Comic Ballads XXXV

My dear and only love, I pray That little world of thee Be govern'd by no other sway But purest monarchy. For if confusion have a part, Which virtuous souls abhor; I'll call a synod in my heart, And never love thee more.

As Alexander I will reign, And I will reign alone; My thoughts did evermore disdain A rival on my throne. He either fears his fate too much, Or his deserts are small; Who dares not put it to the touch To gain or lose it all.

And in the empire of thy heart, Where I should solely be, If others do pretend a part, Or dare to share with me; Or committees if thou erect, Or go on such a score, I'll smiling mock at thy neglect, And never love thee more.

But if no faithless action stain Thy love and constant word, I'll make thee famous by my pen, And glorious by my sword. I'll serve thee in such noble ways As ne'er were known before; I'll deck and croun thy head with bays, And love thee more and more.