1. The moon-rays on the bayous gleam, ay, ay, ay, The dark willows sigh in the breeze, 'Neath night's sable robe I dream, ay, ay, ay, That some day you will heed my pleas. That some day my love you will share, Thus ending my hours of despair, O say I dream not in vain, ay, ay, ay, O tell me I dream not in vain. 2. The lilt of your joyous voice, ay, ay, ay, Is sweetest of music to hear, Your smile makes my heart rejoice, ay, ay, ay, Each thing that you do I find dear. If only I could win your love, Far higher than the clouds above, Would soar this glad soul of mine, ay, ay, ay, Then truly the world would be mine.