-Tis time to dress. Dost hear the music surging
Like sobbing waves that roll up from the sea?
Yes, yes, I hear - I yield - no need of urging;
I know your wishes, - send Lisette to me.

I hate the ballroom; hate its gilded pleasure;
I hate the crowd within it, well you know;
But what of that? I am your lawful treasure -
And when you would display me I must go.

You bought me with a mother-s pain and trouble.
I-ve been a great expense to you always.
And now, if you can sell me, and get double
The sum cost - why, what have I to say?

You-ve done your duty: kept me in the fashion,
And shown off me at every stylish place.
-Twas not your fault I had a heart of passion;
-Twas not your fault I ever saw his face.

The dream was brief, and beautiful, and tender,
(O, God! to live those golden hours once more.
The silver moonlight, and his dark eyes- splendour,
The sky above us, and the sea below.)

Come, come, Lisette, bring out those royal laces;
To-night must make the victory complete.
Among the crowd of masked and smiling faces,
I-ll move with laughter, and with smiles most sweet.

Make me most fair! with youth and grace and beauty.
I needs must conquer bloated age and gold.
She shall not say I have not done my duty;
I-m ready now - a daughter to be sold!