Classic Poem

In the silent, moonless midnight
'Neath my balcony he stood;
Singing to his lute so sweetly
Strains with tend'rest love imbued.

Then, by jealous rivals challenged,
Bravely fought he, fierce and proud;
Till the sparks flashed swiftly, brightly,
Till the walls re-echoed loud.

Thus, by turns, both arts he practised
Said to win the coyest fair;
Till my heart with love was glowing
For the stranger 'neath me there.

Forth I gazed at early morning,
Fearful what mine eyes might see;
Naught of him my gaze encountered,
Save his blood, left there for me.