1. Let me grieve like one bereaved,
For I'm but a lover departing.

2. In my weak heart I've love conceived,
And love's burden is heavy and smarting.

3. Let me die! For time has oft
Stirred my heart's inmost honey cell.

4. And the minutes speed swift and soft,
In their urgent march pell-mell.

5. Let me die! I am one who bore
More than frail life could withstand.

6. I have crossed youth's plateau hoar,
And approached the strand.

7. Let me die! Shed no vain tear
On this idle, mouldering frame.

8. For love's tears are ever dear.
Drain them not, they death disclaim!

9. Let me die! My hapless lot
Is a love whose star has set.

10. Let me die! My hope is not,
Wrecked on vain breath's shore is met.

11. What I formerly hoped to gain
Was a dream that cheated me.