XXXIV LODGINGS
Reading edition
As I climb these musty stairs, To my garret near the roof— Past the ladies singing airs From the latest Opéra-bouffe— I can see her little feet Twinkling in the brilliant light, I can hear the words so sweet That said for my delight, When the whirling dance was over And she joined me in the night! As I climb these hard-worn stairs To my garret near the roof, All her pretty, subtle airs, As she kept me half-aloof, Fill my thoughts and banish cares; I can hear her soft reproof When I kissed her unawares, As I climb these weary stairs To my garret near the roof.