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