The Modest Maid.
Abroad as I was walking,Down by a shady grove,I heard a young maid talking,lamenting for her love.Then I began to court her,In a rude and rakish way.
I clasp’d my arms around her,And gave her kisses sweet.I kindly did salute her,Till she began to weep.
She weep’d and wail’d, and to me said,O fie, young man, for shame!Pray be easy, and do not teaze me,for you are much to blame.O do you think I amSome mistress of delight?Or do you think I wantFor to be ruin’d quite?
O no no young man,Such things will never do;I have a lover of good behaviour,I far prefer to you:Your riches I do hold in scorn,Your offer I deny;Don't think that I can love you,From me depart straightway.
So pray, young man, be civil,Away from me depart;Do you think such ill behaviourWill ever gain my heart?The man that I do most admire,He is both neat and trim;He is no rover, but a true loverTo me a damsel young.He’s straight and tail, genteel withal,Has no deluding tongue:
And If I can’t enjoyThe man that I love best,I never will be marriedAs long as I have breath:I never will married be,Nor yet be made a wife,I’ll love my choice, and will rejoiceIn a sweet and single life.