Youth is leaving me; but
By new courage it's replaced ;
And my bold arm circles
Many a young and slender waist.
Some were shocked and others pouted;
Some grew wroth—but none denied.
Flattery has always
Lovely shame and stubborn pride.
Yet the best is gone.
Too late,
Give my soul for it, in truth.
Can it be the blundering, great-eyed,
Sweet stupidity of youth?
