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.