I Loved You, Once--

And did you think my heart Could keep its love unchanging, Fresh as the buds that start In spring, nor know estranging? Listen! The buds depart: I loved you once, but now-- I love you more than ever.

'T is not the early love; With day and night it alters, And onward still must move Like earth, that never falters For storm or star above. I loved you once; but now-- I love you more than ever.

With gifts in those glad days How eagerly I sought you! Youth, shining hope, and praise: These were the gifts I brought you. In this world little stays: I loved you once, but now-- I love you more than ever.

A child with glorious eyes Here in our arms half sleeping-- So passion wakeful lies; Then grows to manhood, keeping Its wistful, young surprise: I loved you once, but now-- I love you more than ever.

When age's pinching air Strips summer's rich possession, And leaves the branches bare, My secret in confession Still thus with you I'll share: I loved you once, but now-- I love you more than ever.