Rose-Ann

Why didn't you say you was promised, Rose-Ann?      Why didn't you name it to me,     Ere ever you tempted me hither, Rose-Ann,      So often, so wearifully?     O why did you let me be near 'ee, Rose-Ann,      Talking things about wedlock so free,     And never by nod or by whisper, Rose-Ann,      Give a hint that it wasn't to be?     Down home I was raising a flock of stock ewes,      Cocks and hens, and wee chickens by scores,     And lavendered linen all ready to use,      A-dreaming that they would be yours.     Mother said: "She's a sport-making maiden, my son";      And a pretty sharp quarrel had we;     O why do you prove by this wrong you have done      That I saw not what mother could see?     Never once did you say you was promised, Rose-Ann,      Never once did I dream it to be;     And it cuts to the heart to be treated, Rose-Ann,      As you in your scorning treat me!