IX. When I did part from thee the other night

Robert Tofte (1561–1620)

WHEN I did part from thee the other night;

Methought a foul black dog, with ugly shape,

Did follow me: and did me sore affright;

And all the way did greedy on me gape.

Nor I this cur, how he at me did howl,

Can well as yet forget, with chaps most foul.

Then thinking of his colour, hateful black;

Methought some ill, my thought did fear to come,

And said within me, “Turn again, turn back!

If forward thou dost go, thou art undone!”

Then pardon, Lady, if I back again

Am come this night, with you for to remain.