University of Virginia Library

“FOR EVER.”

Farewell , Sweet! may you find a nest
Of home in haven dearer:
And safelier rest upon the breast
Of truer love and nearer!
May favours fall, and blessings flow
For you, and cares come never!
But kiss me, dear, before you go,
And then shake hands for ever.”

146

Her very heart within doth melt,
And gathers while she lingers
A weeping warmth, as though it felt
A wee Babe's feeling fingers:
The minutes pass, they do not part,
And vain was all endeavour;
A touch had closed them heart to heart,
And hands were clasped for ever.