The Black-bird/O could I answer No?

by Anonymous

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I could not answer No.

Once, twice, thrice, I met young Lubin on the green,Once, twice, thrice, young Lubin he met me:  The first time I beheld the lad,   He made an humble bow;  I blush’d and hung my silly head,   And felt, I don’t know how!  He ask'd my hand with such a grace,   To dance upon the green, I thought he was the blithest ladThese eyes had ever seen!Now, could I answer No?No, no, oh! no,I could not answer No.

Once, twice, thrice, I met young Lubin on the green,Once, twice, thrice, young Lubin he met me; And when we met again, he shew’d  His Cot with woodbine bound: He pointed out his flocks and fields,  Where plenty smil'd around! He told me all the joys of life  Awaited me within! I took a peep, and surely thought   It could not be a sin.   Now could I answer, &c.

Once, twice, thrice, I met young Lubin on the green,Once, twice, thrice, young Lubin he met me; The third time, when we met again,  He strove consent to gain, To make him happy, was his theme,  And ease his heart of pain; He vow’d his wealth should all be mine,  If I to Church would go; He press’d my hand, and nam’d the day;  Now, could I answer No?   I could not answer No.