THE GIFT OF GIFTS

If Antoinette were sitting here before the cheery blaze,

And she should ask me what I'd like to-morrow — day of days —

Would not my heart leap to my mouth, as any chap's would do,

While leaning down to her pink ear, I softly whispered, “You!”

If Antoinette were just to give me half a chance to say

What gift of gifts I'd like the best, how long would I delay

In taking her into my arms and keeping her there, too,

While earnestly I answer her with one brief, heartfelt “You!”

If Antoinette, dear Antoinette, were simply to suggest

That question, do n't you think that I would quickly do the rest?

Well, you'd be wrong, because, alas! a year ago — or two —

She asked Jim what he wanted, and the lucky chap said “You!”