Page:Court Journal 1835.pdf/9



Youth's clear and far horizon Affords such ample scope, And we too, had our fairy, The early fairy–Hope.

We had some thought of changes Whene'er that future came; But it was still, in changing, To find our hearts the same.

I linger o'er those moments With a true and fond regret— As we watch the last faint colours Of a sun that long has set.

No friendships are unselfish As those which first we knew; So linked by pleasant memories— So generous and so true.

The best of those affections We form in after hours, Are the faint and chilling perfume Of the after-growth of flowers.

We have fallen from each other, Have changed and disagreed; Our lips are closed and careless, Of love we have no need.

The world has entered in us, We doubt where once we dreamed; We have learnt the bitter lesson, There is nothing what it seemed.

Oh, lone and silent valley, Thy loveliness is o'er: For youth, hope, and affection, Return to thee no more.