Serenade

I gave thee my all but thou gavest me ashes,

That filled my mouth with dust. Scarce could I

Swallow as badly choked was I, a bitter taste

Lingers, a sacrifice of a prosperous joyful life!

What you gave to me, you took away all with

Interest thrown in!  Would you punish one so

Close, who'd give  you his all, just to please?

Alas!  That I   should   please  you  no more.

Fain   would  I sacrifice my all to gain a place

At thy  table, to  sit  in  communion with thee,

But in my place sit  thieves, liars and cheats,

Who   charm thee with  their fawning smiles!

Why  should  I retire in a dudgeon?  I know well

The weather  might  change, and  lift the veil of

Impenetrable haze that blinds you so! For one

So devoted to you, you favour a deceitful one!

So I serenade before your window knowing well

That I might win  your  favour, a smile from you

All I wish! The  ashes might yet turn into reward

Fair, a communion  of joy  and glory so grand!