WHY DO I LOVE THEE?

'Tis not because thou art so fair, So beautiful unto the sight; 'Tis not because thy silken hair Curls o'er a neck of spotless white; 'Tis not because thy speaking eye Claims kindred with the deep blue sky, Alone I love thee!

No! 'tis because around thee gleams The light of innocence and truth, Adorning with its radiant beams, And pure reflex the charms of youth; Because thine every word and thought With thy soul's gentleness is fraught, Therefore I love thee!