Reginella [English translation]

You bought a low-cut dress,

a hat with ribbons and with roses.

You were among the three or four singers

and you spoke french. So what?

It was the day before yesterday that I've met you,

It was the day before yesterday in Tuleto1, yes siree.

[Chorus:]

I've loved you so much.

You've loved me so much.

Now we don't love each other anymore,

but from time to time you,

absent-mindedly, think of me.

Reginella, when you were with me

you didn't eat but bread and cherries. 2

We lived on kisses, and what kisses!

You were singing and crying for me,

and the goldfinch sang along with you:

"Reginella3 you love this king so much."

(chorus)

Ah goldfinch, whom are you expecting tonight?

Don't you see? I've opened the cage,

Reginella's flown! Fly you too!

Fly and sing, don't cry here.

You have to find a sincere mistress

who's worthy enough to listen to your singing.

Now we don't love each other anymore,

but from time to time you,

absent-mindedly, think of me.

1. A neighborhood in Naples2. The cherry season is quite brief, from mid-May through June3. Reginella means Queenie