Classic Poem

CONSTANCY .

I RIFLED a leaf from the heart of a rose: —
Believe! believe!
Though love comes lightly, not lightly it goes;
It steals through our veins and our youth's white flower
Blossoms in crimson from that hour;
Life of our life, it cannot deceive!
I love thee, I love thee, believe!

Oh, fancies are fitful as breezes that blow —
Believe! believe!
They come to us lightly, more lightly they go;
Diviner than duty, and stronger than will,
Love, the sweet mystery, rules me still;
Tyranny tender, it cannot deceive;
I love thee, I love thee, believe!