OK - the first Guest was me (I've been clearing cookies recently).


ARABELLA

Why shoots wrath's lightning, Arabella,
From those jet eyes? What clouds thy brow?
Those cheeks that once with love blush'd on me,
Why are they pale and bloodless now?
Why bite those lips that bore my kisses?
Where lurks the smile that won my heart?
Why will be mute, oh Arabella;
Speak love, once more before we part.

What have I done, oh, cruel fair one
To merit e'en a frown from thee?
Am I too fond, or art thou fickle,
Or play'st thou but to humble me?
Thou art my own by word and honour,
And wilt thou not thy word fulfil?
Thou need'st not frown, oh, Arabella,
I would not have thee 'gainst thy will.

Full be thy heart with joy for ever,
May time ne'er cypher on thy brow;
Through life may beauty's rose and lily
Dance on thy healthy cheeks as now;
Forget thy broken vows and never
Allow thy wakeful conscience tell
That thou did'st e'er mislead or wrong me;
Oh, Arabella fare thee well.


English words by the late 'Cuhelyn' [Thomas Gwallter Price (1829-69)]
to the tune 'Myfanwy' by Joseph Parry

From a 4-part male voice tonic solfa, published 1875
and printed by Lowe & Brydons, London.

Joseph Parry 1841-1903
Welsh words by 'Mynyddog' [Richard Davies (1833-77)]

It's a bit florid for my taste, but typical of the period. The Welsh words are a better fit with the tune, in my opinion.

Phil