Page:The Works of Lord Byron (ed. Coleridge, Prothero) - Volume 1.djvu/167

Rh 5.

However, dear George, for I still must esteem you—

The few, whom I love, I can never upbraid;

The chance, which has lost, may in future redeem you,

Repentance will cancel the vow you have made.

6.

I will not complain, and though chill'd is affection,

With me no corroding resentment shall live:

My bosom is calm'd by the simple reflection,

That both may be wrong, and that both should forgive.

7.

You knew, that my soul, that my heart, my existence,

If danger demanded, were wholly your own;

You knew me unalter'd, by years or by distance,

Devoted to love and to friendship alone.

8.

You knew,—but away with the vain retrospection!

The bond of affection no longer endures;

Too late you may droop o'er the fond recollection,

And sigh for the friend, who was formerly yours.