Page:Iolanthe lib.djvu/12



Nay, tempt me not.
 * To rank I'll not be bound:

In lowly cot
 * Alone is virtue found!

Spurn not the nobly born
 * With love affected,

Nor treat with virtuous scorn
 * The well connected.

High rank involves no shame— We boast an equal claim With him of humble name
 * To be respected!

Blue blood! blue blood!
 * When virtuous love is sought
 * Thy power is naught,

Though dating from the flood,
 * Blue blood!

Spare us the bitter pain
 * Of stern denials,

Nor with lowborn disdain
 * Augment our trials.

Hearts just as pure and fair May beat in Belgrave Square As in the lowly air
 * Of Seven Dials!

Blue blood! Blue blood!
 * Of what avail art thou
 * To serve us now?

Though dating from the flood,
 * Blue blood!

My Lord, it may not be.
 * With grief my heart is riven!

You waste your words on me,
 * For ah! my heart is given!