reflections

Palgrave, ed. (1824–1897). The Golden Treasury. 1875.

A. L. Barbauld

CLXV. "Life! I know not what thou art"

LIFE! I know not what thou art,

But know that thou and I must part;

And when, or how, or where we met

I own to me's a secret yet.


Life! we've been long together,
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Through pleasant and through cloudy weather;

'Tis hard to part when friends are dear—

Perhaps 'twill cost a sigh, a tear;

—Then steal away, give little warning,

Choose thine own time;
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Say not Good-night—but in some brighter clime

Bid me Good-morning.