Chapter II

Of Course I cannot love them as they are,
As much as You.
Why aren't they ever really Beautiful,
--They too?--
With curly coats, like wool;
And floppy ears to pull;
Yes, and a wide pink mouth, with such a Smile!
Yes, and a Tail that beats time all the while;
Beautiful, Beautiful!--
And golden stars, for eyes,
Behind the darkest trees
(Till your hair's parted)!
Why can't they have such darling ways as these?--
Why can't they be so lovely when they sneeze?--
Why can't they ever be so tender-hearted,
Or even look so wise
As You?--
My Wonderful (even if you Won't say _Mew_),
My True Prince in Disguise!
Why can't they be
As funny, when they try to sing a song?
And when, for everything that I can do,
They Won't Agree,--
Why can't they think they're always in the wrong?
--Like You!