With faltering step would I depart,
From home and friend that claimed my heart —
And the big tear would dim mine eye,
Fixed on the scenes of early years,
(Each spot some pleasure past endears)
And I would mingle with a sigh
The accents of the farewell lay —
But for my love that's far way!

Friends and dear native land, adieu!
In hope we part — no tears bedew
My cheek — no dark regrets alloy
The buoyant feelings of the hour
That leads me to my ladye's bower —
My breast throbs with a wondrous joy,
While every life-pulse seems to say —
" Haste to thy love that's far away! "