The Red Rose

I pinned a red rose o'er my heart, The rose my lover gave to me, With many vows and tender words, My love, my own, I love but thee.

I wore the red rose o'er my heart, That summer day with gladness, And knew not doubt nor haunting care, Nor slightest touch of sadness.

But ah! a thorn's within my heart, A thorn of false love's planting, Deceit had pressed its bitter sting, My life forever haunting.

I took the red rose from my heart, No more, oh love, 'tis blowing, The thorn lies deep within my breast, Where never sign is showing.