Once I lov'd a bonie lass, Ay, and I love her still;

And whilst that virtue warms my breast, I'll love my handsome Nell.

As bonie lasses I hae seen, And mony full as braw;

But, for a modest gracefu' mien, The like I never saw.

A bonie 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 complete, And fair without a flaw.

She dresses aye 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 control.