Gude Deekun, "Suspense" (1903)
And my hair is turning gray,
For I've asked her if she'll have me,
And I don't know what she'll say.
The moon lit air was balmy,
And the boat was drifting slow,
And she looked so sweet and dainty
In her gown as white as snow,
That before I really knew it,
I had clasped her little hand,
Asked her told her how I loved her,
Drew her closer--and--and--
Well, my heart is torn within me
And my hair is turning gray,
For I've asked her if she'll have me,
But I hope she'll say me nay.
Published in Colored American Magazine, November 1903