Last Words
I knew not ’twas so dire a crimeTo say the word, “Adieu;”But this shall be the only timeMy lips or heart shall sue.
That wild hill-side, the winter morn,The gnarled and ancient tree,If in your breast they waken scorn,Shall wake the same in me.
I can forget black eyes and brows,And lips of falsest charm,If you forget the sacred vowsThose faithless lips could form.
If hard commands can tame your love,Or strongest walls can hold,I would not wish to grieve aboveA thing so false and cold.
And there are bosoms bound to mineWith links both tried and strong:And there are eyes whose lightning shineHas warmed and blest me long:
Those eyes shall make my only day,Shall set my spirit free,And chase the foolish thoughts awayThat mourn your memory.