The Rivals

Seated in my ingle nook
With Duty by my side,
How I strove to see her charms
And take her for my bride!

"Sweet," I said, "I love you so"--
And suddenly I heard
The laughing call of Beauty's voice
And all my soul was stirred.

Once again she cried my name
And gone was every doubt,
For who could stay at Duty's side
When Beauty calls without?