208 
And when the minstrel-melody 
Rang out in cadence loud, 
Then with a heavy heart did I 
Mingle in that gay crowd: 
For all were then so deep intent 
Upon their own delight, 
That not one curious glance was bent 
On me—poor woe-eyed wight ! 
I looked the gay ranks through; but not 
A sight of her could gain— 
I gazed and gazed—and, lest a spot 
Escaped, looked through again. 
She was not there — and then the Hall 
Before so bright, seemed dim ; 
Alas! in Lover’s eye, what change 
One form doth make to him. 
And on I passed through gay saloons 
Where guests by three and two 
Were list’ning to the softened tones 
O’ the music, and some few, 
Methought, were whispering words which they. 
No doubt, far sweeter knew. 
