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1836–1911

PROPER PRIDE.

William Schwenck Gilbert

The Sun, whose rays Are all ablaze With ever living glory, Does not deny

His majesty — He scorns to tell a story! He do n't exclaim “I blush for shame,

So kindly be indulgent,” But, fierce and bold, In fiery gold, He glories all effulgent!

I mean to rule the earth. As he the sky — We really know our worth, The Sun and I!

Observe his flame, That placid dame, The Moon's Celestial Highness; There's not a trace

Upon her face Of diffidence or shyness: She borrows light That, through the night,

Mankind may all acclaim her! And, truth to tell, She lights up well, So I, for one, do n't blame her!

Ah, pray make no mistake, We are not shy; We're very wide awake, The Moon and I!

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PROPER PRIDE. · William Schwenck Gilbert · Poetry Cove