To a Friend Leaving Grasmere

Sweet Grasmere vale, though I must leave
Thy hills and quiet waters,
Nor sing again at fragrant eve

To glad thy winsome daughters,
Yet will I fondly think of thee,
And thy fair maids will think of me.
When I am far away.

I think of thee, but 'tis a thought
That has no touch of sadness ;

I joy to think that I have brought
To thee so much of gladness.
Such thoughts I fain would leave behind
To maidens that are fair and kind.
When I am far away.