Jean Ritchie
The Gypsy’s Warning
[Verse 1]
Gentle lady, do not trust him
Though his voice is low and sweet
Heed not him who kneels before thee
Gently pleading at thy feet
Now thy life is in its morning
Spurn not this thy happy lot—
Listen to the gypsy's warning
Gentle lady, trust him not!

[Verse 2]
Do not turn so coldly from me
I would only guard your youth
From his stern and withering power—
I would only tell the truth
I would save you from all danger
Shield you from the tempter's snare
Lady, shun that dark-eyed stranger
I have warned you, now, beware!

[Verse 3]
Once there lived a tender maiden
Pure and bright, and like thee, fair
But he wooеd and wooed and won her
Filled hеr gentle heart with care
Then he heeded not her weeping
Nor cared he her life to save
Soon she perished, now she's sleeping
In the cold and silent grave
[Verse 4]
Keep your gold, I do not want it
Lady, I have prayed for this
For the day I could outwit him
Rob him of expected bliss
Gentle lady, do not wonder
At my words so cold and wild—
Lady, in that green grave yonder
Lies a gypsy's only child!