FOR FIFTEEN SPRINGS I HAVE BEEN OUT.
I
For fifteen springs I have been out, and I am thirty-three!
I never get proposals now, what can the reason be?
All strangers guess me twenty one and praise me to the skies,
Because I have such pearly teeth and animated eyes.
II
Would none but strangers saw me now! Alas it is my lot
To dwell where I have always dwelt, half rooted to the spot!
Children who shared my childish sports have children of their own,
And brats I once look'd down upon, are men and women grown!
III
Last week a gallant son of Mars invited me to dance:
We laughed, we talked! I really thought once more I had a chance!
At length he said “My dear Miss Smith, you don't remember me!
I'm William Jones, twelve years ago, you danced me on your knee!”
IV
When fashionably dress'd, some friend exclaims “Miss Smith I know
You must remember sleeves like these, at least ten years ago.”
The sweetest fruit is that which hangs the longest on the tree,
For fifteeen springs I have been out, and I am thirty three!
