If Truth in Hearts

If truth in hearts that perish

     Could move the powers on high,

I think the love I bear you

     Should make you not to die.

Sure, sure, if steadfast meaning,

     If single thought could save,

The world might end to-morrow,

     You should not see the grave.

This long and sure-set liking,

     This boundless will to please,

—Oh, you should live for ever,

     If there were help in these.

But now, since all is idle,

     To this lost heart be kind,

Ere to a town you journey

     Where friends are ill to find.
 

A.E. Housman