The shadows grow thicker;

I stir up the embers

That lazily flicker,

And pull down the curtains, -

There, that is much better; -

A step! - it's the postman,

He's brought me a letter!

How soon she has answered

My late New Year's greeting!

Don't think I'm in love, though,

Because my heart's beating,

For I've seen other beauties

Both fairer and frailer;

So I'll open her letter, -

It's a bill from my tailor!