Page:Poems Chandler.djvu/100

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
96
IF I COULD KEEP HER SO.
Blue eyes learning wonders of the world about,
Here you come to tell them,—what an eager shout!—
Winsome little damsel, all the neighbours know;
Thus I long to keep you, for I love you so.

Sober little schoolgirl, with your strap of books,
And such grave importance in your puzzled looks;
Solving weary problems, poring over sums,
Yet with tooth for sponge-cake and for sugar-plums
Reading books of romance in your bed at night,
Waking up to study with the morning light;
Anxious as to ribbons, deft to tie a bow,
Full of contradictions,—I would keep you so.

Sweet and thoughtful maiden, sitting by my side,
All the world's before you, and the world is wide;
Hearts are there for winning, hearts are there to break,
Has your own, shy maiden, just begun to wake?