O, once I lov'd a bonie Lass

O, once I lov'd a bonie lass,Ay, and I love her still,And whilst that virtue warms my breastI'll love my handsome Nell.Fal lal de ral, &c.

As bonie lasses I hae seen,And monie full as braw,But for a modest gracefu' mienThe like I never saw.

A bonie lass, I will confess,Is pleasant to the ee,But without some better qualitiesShe's no a lass for me.

But Nelly's looks are blithe 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 gaitGars onie dress look weel.

A gaudy dress and gentle airMay slightly touch the heart,But it's innocence and modestyThat polishes the dart.

'Tis this in Nelly pleases me,'Tis this enchants my soul!For absolutely in my breastShe reigns without control.Fal lal de ral, &c.