Endearing! endearing! 
  Why so endearing
Are those dark lustrous eyes, 
  Through their silk fringes peering? 
They love me! they love me! 
  Deeply, sincerely;
And more than aught else on earth, 
  I love them dearly.

Endearing! endearing! 
  Why so endearing 
Glows the glad sunny smile 
  On thy soft cheek appearing?
It brightens! it brightens! 
  As I am nearing; 
And 'tis thus that thy fond smile 
  Is ever endearing. 

Endearing! endearing! 
  Why so endearing 
Is that lute-breathing voice
  Which my rapt soul is hearing 
'Tis singing, 'tis singing 
  Thy deep love for me, 
And my faithful heart echoes
  Devotion to thee.

Endearing! endearing! 
  Why so endearing,
At each Passage of Arms 
  Is the herald's bold cheering? 
'Tis then thou art kneeling 
  With pure hands to heaven,
And each prayer of thy heart 
  For my good lance is given. 

Endearing! endearing! 
  Why so endearing 
Is the fillet of silk 
  That my right arm is wearing?
Once it veiled the bright bosom 
  That beats but for me;
Now it circles the arm that 
  Wins glory for thee!