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.