Sir Walter Scott (1771–1832)

PROUD Maisie is in the wood,

Walking so early;

Sweet Robin sits on the bush,

Singing so rarely.

‘Tell me, thou bonny bird,

When shall I marry me?’

‘When six braw gentlemen

Kirkward shall carry ye.’

‘Who makes the bridal bed,

Birdie, say truly?’

‘The gray-headed sexton

That delves the grave duly.

‘The glow-worm o’er the grave and stone

Shall light thee steady.

The owl from the steeple sing,

‘Welcome, proud lady.’’