I.

Ruddy Damon sighing said,
" Let us, dearest Phyllis, marry. "
Phyllis smiled, but shook her head —
" Parents tell us we must tarry. "
Still did amorous Damon press,
Till to church they slipped away;
Age said " no, " but Youth said " yes; "
Could you, could you blame them, pray?

II.

Youth, while mantling in the cheek,
Only knows what nature's will is;
Greybeards' precepts then are weak;
Every Damon has his Phyllis.
Nature's law we all confess,
And when nature points the way,
Though Age say " no! " still Youth says " yes! "
Can you, can you blame us, pray?