TO J. S. B.

Take, fair maid, these simple lines

From my pen;

Think of strollings‘ neath the pines,

Which have been —

Long and lonesome were the days

We were apart,

But may Love, now, have her sways,—

Bind heart to heart!

O'er main to isle and back to land

Have I been;

Beheld on either hand

A maiden queen:

But none with captivating charms

Like thine;

None to nestle in her arms,

Love of mine!

Charms unto thee God gave

To banish strife;

To glorify and save

One sweet life —

Take this, dear, before we part

From this bliss;

‘ Tis but love flowing from my heart,

Thine to kiss!