A Learner + 

I do not think you rightly understand: + 

My foolish tongue imperfectly has caught + 

The trick of loving words, nor, as it ought, + 

Serves the sweet purpose of the heart’s command. + 

Dear, I’m untraveled in the golden land + 

Of love, and in its language all untaught, + 

Like some poor mariner by tempest brought + 

’Mongst alien races to a foreign strand. + 

So, pretty native, bear with me until + 

My simple wants I rightly can avow⁠— + 

My will to serve you with my men and ships. + 

For lo! already I’ve some little skill + 

In the strange tongue. Ask me to kiss you now⁠— + 

I’ll read the riddle ere it leaves your lips! + 