Parting Address From Z.Z. To A.E.

O weep not, love! each tear that springs
          In those dear eyes of thine,
To me a keener suffering brings
          Than if they flowed from mine.
And do not droop! however drear
          The fate awaiting thee.
For my sake, combat pain and care,
          And cherish life for me!

I do not fear thy love will fail,
          Thy faith is true I know;
But O! my love! thy strength is frail
          For such a life of woe.

Were't not for this, I well could trace
          (Though banished long from thee)
Life's rugged path, and boldly face
          The storms that threaten me.

Fear not for me -­ I've steeled my mind
          Sorrow and strife to greet,
Joy with my love I leave behind,
          Care with my friends I meet.

A mother's sad reproachful eye,
          A father's scowling brow -­
But he may frown, and she may sigh;
          I will not break my vow!

I love my mother, I revere
          My sire, but doubt not me.
Believe that Death alone can tear
          This faithful heart from thee.

Zerona