Classic Poem

I.

To ease my troubled mind of anxious care
Last night the secret casket I explor'd
Where all the letters of my absent fair
(His richest treasure) careful Love had stor'd.

II.

In ev'ry word a magick spell I found
Of pow'r to charm each busy thought to rest,
Tho' ev'ry word increas'd the tender wound
Of fond desire still throbbing in my breast.

III.

So to his hoarded gold the miser steals,
And loses ev'ry sorrow at the sight,
Yet wishes still for more, nor ever feels
Entire contentment or secure delight.

IV.

Ah! should I lose thee my too lovely Maid!
Couldst thou forget thy heart was ever mine,
Fear not thy letters should the change upbraid;
My hand each dear memorial shall resign.

V.

Not one kind word shall in my pow'r remain
A painful witness of reproach to thee;
And left my heart should still their sense retain,
My heart shall break to leave thee wholly free.