Classic Poem

TO ONE WHO ASKS ME FOR A MERRY SONG.

OH, could I know how long Life's day —
How near its end, or far away —
What space for mirth, what room for tears —
Then might I put aside my fears,
And for a little while be gay.

But now, I think, Death soon may stray
Hereward, and find me at my play,
And mock my laughter with his jeers —
Ah, could I know!

And so I tremble 'neath the sway
Of that arch Foe, who at me peers,
And hour by hour my covert nears,
Yet mocks me when I bid him say
How long for me may be Life's day.