An Oriental Maiden

THOU fairest one of Judah’s daughters,

I would thy lover be;

Oh, may thy heart be free from others,

And treasured but for me.

I fain would see thy brown eyes brighten,

Which all their love disclose;

To see thy cheeks, their colors brighten,

Like tintings on the rose.

Thou maiden rare, of ancient nation,

Thy soul is dear to me;

And does my heart, with each pulsation,

Beat every stroke for thee.

Then grant the boon, I ask thy favor,

And give thy word to-day,

Oh, let me come, thy truest lover,

And bid me not away.