To—
Some time, far hence, when Autumn shedsHer frost upon your hair,And you together sit at dusk,May I come to you there?And lightly will our hearts turn backTo this, then distant, dayWhen, while the world was clad in flowers,You two were wed in May.
When we shall sit about your boardThree old friends met again,Joy will be with us, but not muchOf jest and laughter then;For Autumn’s large content and calm,Like heaven’s own smile, will blessThe harvest of your happy livesWith store of happiness.
May you, who, flankt about with flowers,Will plight your faith to-day,Hold, evermore enthroned, the loveWhich you have crowned in May;And Time will sleep upon his scythe,The swallow rest his wing,Seeing that you at autumntideStill clasp the hands of spring.