Lines To An Old Sweetheart

written in 1786

Once fondly lov'd, and still rememb'red dear, Sweet early Object of my youthful vows, Accept this mark of friendship, warm, sincere, Friendship - 'tis all cold duty now allows. And while you read the simple, artless rhymes, One friendly sigh for him - he asks no more, Who, distant, burns in flaming torrid climes, Or haply lies beneath th' Atlantic roar.