  I never deemed we thus should sever, Two hearts that vowed to love forever; I never thought in this proud, selfish world, That love so soon her soft white wings furled. Our parting I remember yet too well: The budding spring was decking earth once more, The birds were singing in the quiet dell, The south winds sighed along the rippling shore. We stood where fragrant violets grew Beside thy cottage door; The early dawn soft glances threw The lovely landscape o’er. I took thy hand, it quivered not; Thy face was calm and cold; You knew not then the storm of grief That o’er my spirit rolled. One impassioned kiss I pressed Upon thy lovely brow, But thou turn’st coldly from my side— How strangely changed wert thou! We parted, and we ne’er have met Since then, long years ago; But still I dream, and dream of thee— Sad thoughts will backward flow. Since then I’ve wandered far and wide O’er earth and stormy sea, And mingled in the world’s deep strife, But still I think of thee. The human heart I trust no more; Sweet smile or voice’s tone Are but an echo on the shore Of dreams that long have flown. Thus it is with many a one In the world’s hurry and strife: Deserted and ever alone, They end a weary life. Hoping not and trusting never, Waifs on the sea of time; Longing, aye, longing forever For something more divine. |
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