Classic Poem

Black-eyed Alice was so stately,
Of such queenly presence she,
That each night when she sedately
Gave her finger-tips to me,
Chilled by such a haughty bearing
I essayed no greater daring.

E'en my looks I long dissembled,
Fearing that too bold they were,
And my voice, that somehow trembled
As I parted late from her,
As I said “Good-night,” and after,
Cursed her good-night's careless laughter.

But, alas for stately Alice
And the seeming haughty bearing,
For the black eyes' tender malice
Stung me once to sudden daring.
Dear black eyes! that then belied her,
As I trembled there beside her.

Suddenly her bearing altered,
And a coyness sweet possessed her,
While the little “No” she faltered,
Conscious of my wish confessed her.
Ah, that “No!” Could I resist her?
When she faltered “No!” I kissed her.