HANDSOME NELL

O Once I lov'd a bonnie lass, An' aye I love her still, An' whilst that virtue warms my breast, I'll love my handsome Nell. As bonnie lasses I hae seen, And mony full as braw; But for a modest gracefu' mein, The like I never saw. A bonny lass I will confess, Is pleasant to the e'e, But without some better qualities She's no a lass for me. But Nelly's looks are blythe and sweet, And what is best of a', Her reputation is compleat, And fair without a flaw; She dresses ay sae clean and neat, Both decent and genteel; And then there's something in her gait Gars ony dress look weel. A gaudy dress and gentle air May slightly touch the heart, But it's innocence and modesty That polishes the dart. 'Tis this in Nelly pleases me, 'Tis this enchants my soul; For absolutely in my breast She reigns without controul.