Thomas Hardy
The Ballad Singer
Sing, Ballad-singer, raise a hearty tune;
Make me forget that there was ever a one
I walked with in the meek light of the moon
When the day's work was done

Rhyme, Ballad-rhymer, start a country song;
Make me forget that she whom I loved well
Swore she would love me dearly, love me long
Then - what I cannot tell!

Sing, Ballad-singer, from your little book;
Make me forget those heart-brеaks, achings, fears;
Make me forgеt her name, her sweet sweet look -
Make me forget her tears