  T THEY sat together in the sun, And Youth and Hope stood hovering near; Like dropping bell-notes one by one Chimed the glad moments soft and clear; And still amid their happy speech The lovers whispered each to each, “Forever!” Youth spread his wings of rainbow light, “Farewell!” he whispered as he went; They heeded not nor mourned his flight, Wrapped in their measureless content; And still they smiled, and still was heard The confidently uttered word, “Forever!” Hope stayed, her steadfast smile was sweet,— Until the even-time she stayed; Then with reluctant, noiseless feet She stole into the solemn shade. A graver shape moved gently by, And bent, and murmured warningly, “Forever!” And then—where sat the two, sat one! No voice spoke back, no glance replied. Behind her, where she rested lone, Hovered the spectre, solemn-eyed; She met his look without a thrill, And, smiling faintly, whispered still, “Forever!” Oh, sweet, sweet Youth! Oh, fading Hope! Oh, eyes by tearful mists made blind! Oh, hands which vainly reach and grope For a familiar touch and kind! Time pauseth for no lover’s kiss; Love for its solace has but this,— “Forever!” |
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