Separation

Who knows if we shall meet again?

Behind each parting lurks a fear;

We smile to hide the haunting pain--

The rising tear.

You tell me we shall meet, but where?

The way is dark, the world is wide.

I only know, in my despair,

Our paths divide.

You say that we shall meet, but how?

The years slip by and make us old;

'Tis easy to forget love's vow,

If hearts grow cold.

Why part then, if we do not know?

(Dear God, if one of us should die!)

I cannot, dare not let thee go;

Say not, "Good-bye!"