Page:The Venetian Bracelet.pdf/290

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Ah, not in heaven, but upon earth, Are signs of change exprest; The closing year has left its mark On human brow and breast.

How much goes with it to the grave Of life's most precious things! Methinks each year dies on a pyre, Like the Assyrian kings.

Affections, friendships, confidence,— There's not a year hath died But all these treasures of the heart Lie with it side by side.