Paroles

I was coming down the stair;
….He was standing in the hall,
….And he looked so grand and tall,
As he stood and watched me there.
….Gliding by with smiling look,
….I would pass him, but he took
Both my hands and whispered near:
“Won’t you kiss me, pretty dear?”

Oh, the stupidness of men!
….What could I have said but “No,”
….Blushingly, and bid him go,
And not bother me again?
….Then he left, nor knew my mask.
….Stupid fellow!—not to ask—
(Though why not steal one quick, instead?)
He thought I meant just what I said!

(Annie Pike Greenwood)