  Within a certain town there dwelt A maiden wondrous fair, Whose cheeks were like the rose’s hue And golden was her hair. Her eyes were like the twinkling stars, Her teeth were like the pearl; And sons of both the rich and poor, Admired this charming girl. Two constant beaus this maiden had, And each one swore that she, Ere many months had passed away, His own dear wife would be. But soon an incident occurred Which all their plans upset, When at the maiden’s gate one eve Her two admirers met. Hard words arose between the two, As oft there had before; And that the maid should be his wife Still each persistent swore. The longer thus they did contend, The more their wrath did rise; Until at last they came to blows O’er who should have the prize. While thus engaged, a prim young man With unpretentious mien Approached, just as the maid herself Appeared upon the scene. Then soon the angry blows were ceased And quietude restored; And each apologized to her Whom he so much adored. Then bowing low, each went his way; Quite black and swollen-eyed; While she whom they had fought to win Became the third man’s bride. |
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