O, once I lov'd a bonnie lass, <br /> Aye, and I love her still; <br />And whilst that virtue warms my breast <br /> I'll love my handsome Nell. <br /> <br />As bonnie lasses I hae seen, <br /> And mony full as braw, <br />But for a modest gracefu' mien <br /> The like I never saw. <br /> <br />A bonnie lass, I will confess, <br /> Is pleasant to the ee, <br />But without some letter qualities <br /> She's no a lass for me. <br /> <br />But Nellie's looks are blithe and sweet, <br /> And what is best of a' <br />Her reputation is complete, <br /> And fair without a flaw. <br /> <br />She dresses aye sae clean and neat, <br /> Both decent and genteel; <br />And then there's something in her gait <br /> Gars ony dress look weel. <br /> <br />A gaudy dress and gentle air <br /> May slightly touch the heart, <br />But it's innocence and modesty <br /> That polishes the dart. <br /> <br />'Tis this in Nelly pleases me, <br /> 'Tis this enchants my soul <br />For absolutely in my breast <br /> She reigns without control.<br /><br />Robert Burns<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/handsome-nell/
