A pretty song from the musical “Angel Face”, 1919.
words by Robert B. Smith
music by Victor Herbert
From Parlor Songs website: “The music is light and not as dense as some of the other songs from Victor Herbert. In addition, it has more of the flavor of a popular song with a bit of a Fox-trot sound to it. The harmony, though light, is very pleasant and the somewhat ostinato bass line in the chorus adds a nice bounce to the music.”
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
- It’s hard to be true to one
When I’m not built that way
I may promise, but it’s two to one
Before the week is out I’ll stray
But frankness is due to one
Who craves my every kiss
So I make it plain in my refrain
That the best I can do is this
Refrain
I might be your “once-in-a-while”
I might see you once in a while
But I can’t be true to you or you or you
I can’t be your “all-of-the-time”
Your “ever and ever,” but maybe
Your “once-in-a-while” will do
- My heart beats neutrality
But still some say I’ve none
Think of that when in reality
I have a heart for everyone
I fear it’s locality
May change from day to day
It is everywhere, now here, now there
That is why I’m obliged to say
Sung here by Fred Feild: