The Poet’s Proposal

“Phyllis, if I could I’d paint you
As I see you sitting there,
You distracting little saint, you,
With your aureole of hair.
If I only were an artist,
And such glances could be caught,
You should have the very smartest
Picture frame that can be bought!

“Phyllis, since I can’t depict your
Charms, or give you aught but fame,
Will you be yourself the picture?
Will you let me be the frame?
Whose protecting clasp may bind you
Always—”

“Nay,” cried Phyllis; “hold,
Or you’ll force me to remind you
Paintings must be framed with gold!”