O Doctor

 

 

O doctor, beware of the penniless man

   Who enters Love’s house from the cold:

There are riches enough in the warmth of his hand,

   One finds in his heart pure gold;

There are pearls in a string, each bedazzling smile,

   Diamonds brilliantly stud his sweet verse!

There are tears within reach of the silver-tongued speech,

   In each lent ear a priceless silk purse.

 

O doctor, beware! of the penniless man,

   Who enters Love’s house from the cold:

There is king’s wealth enough in the warmth of his hand

   To smelt your heart’s heart of its gold.

When ways lead you home, and your treasure is gone,

   Swear not the deed was not foretold.