Stanzas

Oh, weep not, love! each tear that springs

In those dear eyes of thine,

To me a keener suffering brings

Than if they flowed from mine.

And do not droop! however drear

The fate awaiting thee;

For MY sake combat pain and care,

And cherish life for me!

I do not fear thy love will fail;

Thy faith is true, I know;

But, oh, my love! thy strength is frail

For such a life of woe.

Were 't not for this, I well could trace

(Though banished long from thee)

Life's rugged path, and boldly face

The storms that threaten me.

Fear not for me—I've steeled my mind

Sorrow and strife to greet;

Joy with my love I leave behind,

Care with my friends I meet.

A mother's sad reproachful eye,

A father's scowling brow—

But he may frown and she may sigh:

I will not break my vow!

I love my mother, I revere

My sire, but fear not me—

Believe that Death alone can tear

This faithful heart from thee.