I MET her, she was thin and old,

She stooped and trod with tottering feet; Her locks were gray that once were gold,

Her voice was harsh that once was sweet; Her cheeks were sunken,and her eyes,

Robbed of their girlish light of joy. Were dim: I felt a strange surprise That I had loved her when a boy.

And yet a something in her air

Restored to me my youthful prime; My heart grew young and seemed to wear

The impress of that long-lost time; I took her wilted hand in mine,

Its touch awoke a world of joy; I kissed her with a reverent sigh.

For I had loved her when a boy!

"TILL CHARLEY WENT TO THE POOR-MASTER, AN' PUT ME ON THE TOWN. "