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Since the green vineyards heard our youthful vow; Hurried our parting word, and parting kiss, But not less sacred. In my first career Thou wert my hope, my star of enterprise— When I look'd forward, 'twas to look to thee.

And now we meet, and know that we must part, Unpitying fate! why met we not before?

My exile was repeal'd, but ere I sought My native city, I did seek for thee; Instead of sunny welcome in thine eyes, I found but desolation and despair: Dark night, and its eternal echoes, gave The only answer when I call'd thy name.

Oh! if we had but met.

Fate mocks at us; a few brief hours suffice To stand between us and our happiness, Thenceforth I had those gentle hopes no more, That make the spirit gentle where they dwell. Lucca was then my all—I had no hopes But for the glory of my native city; To see her free and prosperous, became Life's sole great object.

Not for my sake shall Lucca's hero pause Upon his glorious path; not for my sake Forget life's noblest duties.