Glitter and be gay That’s the part I play Here I am in Paris, France Forced to bend my soul To a sordid role Victimized by bitter, bitter circumstance Alas for me, had I remained beside my lady mother My virtue had remained unstained Until my maiden hand was gained by some grand duke, Or other
Ah, 'twas not to be Harsh necessity Brought me to this gilded cage Born to higher things Here I droop my wings Singing of a sorrow Nothing can assuage
And yet, of course, I rather like to revel, ha, ha! I have no strong objection to champagne, ha ha My wardrobe is expensive as the devil, ha ha Perhaps it is ignoble to complain- Enough, enough Of being basely tearful I’ll show my noble stuff By being bright and cheerful
Ha, Ha, Ha -
Pearls and ruby rings Ah, how can worldly things take the place of honor lost? Purchased, as they were, at such an awful cost! Bracelets, lavalieres, can they dry my tears? Can they blind my eyes from shame! Can the brightest broach shield me from reproach? Can the purest diamond purify my name?
And yet, of course, these trinkets are endearing, ha ha! I’m oh so glad my sapphire is a star, ha ha. I rather like a 20 carat earring, ha ha! If I’m not pure, at least my jewels are
Enough, enough, I’ll take that diamond necklace And show my noble stuff By being gay and reckless! Ha, Ha, Ha!