Abby the Shepherdess

[With apologies to Byrd and his "Songs of Sundry Natures" (1589)]

THE UNFAITHFUL SHEPHERDESS

So long as I was in Cynth's home
I was your heart, your soul, and treasure;
And evermore you bark'd and moan'd
Burning in flames beyond all measure:

--Three days endured your love to me,
And it was cold the while all three!

Another Shepherd you did see
To whom your heart was soon enchained;
Full soon your love was leapt from me,
Full soon my place he had obtained.

Soon came your owner, your love to win,
And I was out and he was in.

Adieu Love, adieu Love, untrue Love,
Your mind is light, soon lost for new love.