NEVER again, Dearest, oh never more!
Not in the spring-time's swift enchanted reign,
Shall hope to hope, shall love to love implore.
⁠Never again!

Not in the summer—nor when autumn's wane
Blows the dry leaves along earth's windy floor.
Nor in the winter: that strange joy and pain

No seasons' circle ever can restore.
The roses of to-day no tears shall stain,—
They're thornless! You shall see the rose you wore
⁠Never again!

WHERE are you, Dear, now that the winter white
Has nearly run its course? Spring will be here
And birds shall sing as home they wing their flight,
⁠"Where are you, Dear?"

Thus I have sung and waited thro' the year.
Saying at morning: "He will come with night?"
And in the night: "With the dawn kind and clear.

He will pass by!" My little dwelling bright
Has its soft curtains drawn; I wait the cheer
Your presence brings by day and candle-light;
⁠"Where are you, Dear?"