Braid the raven hair, <br />Weave the supple tress, <br />Deck the maiden fair <br />In her loveliness; <br />Paint the pretty face, <br />Dye the coral lip, <br />Emphasise the grace <br />Of her ladyship! <br />Art and nature, thus allied, <br />Go to make a pretty bride! <br /> <br />Sit with downcast eye, <br />Let it brim with dew; <br />Try if you can cry, <br />We will do so, too. <br />When you're summoned, start <br />Like a frightened roe; <br />Flutter, little heart, <br />Colour, come and go! <br />Modesty at marriage tide <br />Well becomes a pretty bride!<br /><br />William Schwenck Gilbert<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/braid-the-raven-hair/
