Believe me, if all those endearing young charms
That I gaze on so fondly today
Were to change by tomorrow and fleet in my arms
Like fairy gifts fading away

Thou would'st still be adored as this moment thou art
Let thy loveliness fade as it will
And around the dear ruin each wish of my heart
Would entwine itself verdently still

It's not while beauty and youth art thine own
Or by cheeks some profaned by a tear
That the fervour and faith of the soul can be known
To which time will but make thee more dear

No, the heart that has truly loved ne'er forgets
But has truly loved on to the close
As the sunflower turns on her God when He sets
The fane look she turned when He rose

Thou would'st still be adored as this moment thou art
Let thy loveliness fade as it will
And around the dear ruin each wish of my heart
Would entwine itself verdently still