ROSE-ANN

Why did n't you say you was promised, Rose-Ann?

Why did n't you name it to me,

Ere ever you tempted me hither, Rose-Ann,

So often, so wearifully?

O why did you let me be near‘ ee, Rose-Ann,

Talking things about wedlock so free,

And never by nod or by whisper, Rose-Ann,

Give a hint that it was n't to be?

Down home I was raising a flock of stock ewes,

Cocks and hens, and wee chickens by scores,

And lavendered linen all ready to use,

A-dreaming that they would be yours.

Mother said: “She's a sport-making maiden, my son”;

And a pretty sharp quarrel had we;

O why do you prove by this wrong you have done

That I saw not what mother could see?

Never once did you say you was promised, Rose-Ann,

Never once did I dream it to be;

And it cuts to the heart to be treated, Rose-Ann,

As you in your scorning treat me!