A LOVER'S VALENTINE.

By Matthew W. Alderson

Sweetheart of mine,

A valentine,

In duty bound, I send thee,

And wish that joy,

Free from alloy,

May evermore attend thee.

Near, or apart,

Still may thy heart

To mine in friendship nestle;

For strong and free,

In love for thee,

‘ Gainst countless foes I'd wrestle.

Since I am thine,

Pray do be mine,

My heart prompts me to ask thee;

Thy charming face,

And matchless grace,

I own have quite possessed me.