Near the Lake

Near the lake where droop'd the willow,
Long time ago!
Where the rock threw back the billow,
Brighter than snow;
Dwelt a maid, beloved and cherish'd,
By high and low;
But with autumn's leaf she perished,
Long time ago!
Rock and tree and flowing water,
Long time ago!
Bee and bird and blossom taught her
Love's spell to know!
While to my fond words she listened,
Murmuring low,
Tenderly her dove-eyes glistened
Long time ago!
Mingled were our hearts for ever!
Long time ago!
Can I now forget her? — Never '
No, lost one, no!
To her grave these tears are given,
Ever to flow;
She's the star I miss'd from heaven,
Long time ago!