XVII. Ching Nü

The Ching Nü; narrative. A gentleman deplores his disappointment in not being met by a lady according to engagement, and celebrates her gifts and beauty.

1O sweet maiden, so fair and retiring,
  At the corner I'm waiting for you;
And I'm scratching my head, and inquiring
  What on earth it were best I should do.

2Oh! the maiden, so handsome and coy,
  For a pledge gave a slim rosy reed.
Than the reed is she brighter, my joy;
  On her loveliness how my thoughts feed!

3In the pastures a t‘i blade she sought,
  And she gave it, so elegant, rare.
Oh! the grass does not dwell in my thought,
  But the donor, more elegant, fair.