A man who would woo a fair maid, <br />Should 'prentice himself to the trade; <br />And study all day, <br />In methodical way, <br />How to flatter, cajole, and persuade. <br />He should 'prentice himself at fourteen <br />And practise from morning to e'en; <br />And when he's of age, <br />If he will, I'll engage, <br />He may capture the heart of a queen! <br />It is purely a matter of skill, <br />Which all may attain if they will: <br />But every Jack <br />He must study the knack <br />If he wants to make sure of his Jill! <br /> <br />If he's made the best use of his time, <br />His twig he'll so carefully lime <br />That every bird <br />Will come down at his word. <br />Whatever its plumage and clime. <br />He must learn that the thrill of a touch <br />May mean little, or nothing, or much; <br />It's an instrument rare, <br />To be handled with care, <br />And ought to be treated as such. <br />It is purely a matter of skill, <br />Which all may attain if they will: <br />But every Jack, <br />He must study the knack <br />If he wants to make sure of his Jill! <br /> <br />Then a glance may be timid or free; <br />It will vary in mighty degree, <br />From an impudent stare <br />To a look of despair <br />That no maid without pity can see. <br />And a glance of despair is no guide - <br />It may have its ridiculous side; <br />It may draw you a tear <br />Or a box on the ear; <br />You can never be sure till you've tried. <br />It is purely a matter of skill, <br />Which all may attain if they will: <br />But every Jack <br />He must study the knack <br />If he wants to make sure of his Jill!<br /><br />WS Gilbert<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/a-man-who-would-woo-a-fair-maid-2/
