The Hing Loo

The dew thick on the wet paths lay ;
Thither at early dawn my way
I might have ta’en; but I said, “Nay.
“The dew is thick, at home I’ll stay.”

You say the sparrow has a horn.—
How could it else bore through your house ?
You say this trial is a proof
That I exchanged betrothal vows.
But though you’ve made me here appear in court,
Yet at betrothal what you did fell short.

You say the rat’s teeth are complete.—
How could it else bore through your wall ?
You say this trial proves my vows
Of plighted troth were perfect all,
But though to court you’ve forced me here to come,
My will is firm ;—I’ll not with you go home.