It was barely twilight when the string quartet began to play. 
At the stroke of twelve, the dancers failed to pull their masks away. 
Then I saw you weren't the same as anyone, 
And the very room began to shine. 
I was trembling badly, but I took your hand in mine.
Though in all my life I never once believed in second sight, 
Something odd indeed, but just as real, came over me that night. 
All at once my mind was filled with photographs 
Of a thousand moments yet to be. 
I was on the ocean, I was drifting toward the land. 
I loved you when I took your hand.
I felt you near me as the years flew by. 
I hoped you understood
They could not ever dim your beauty. 
Of course, it would have been insanity To say that to a stranger, 
As you were to me, No more than a stranger.
I could dimly see the dancers crossing hands and circling 'round, 
Only faintly hear the music, as it languidly unwound, But I swear I saw the heart and soul of you, 
And I heard each halting word you said. 
As we touched, no more than it's polite to do, 
And your warmth [bad word] to my head.
Then you asked if I would like to dance, 
I've said no, Said no. 
I wanted so to dance, But I could hardly stand
When I took your hand.