Long time ago

On the lake where droop'd the willow

Long time ago,

Where the rock threw back the billow

Brighter than snow.

Dwelt a maid beloved and cherish'd

By high and low,

But with autumn leaf she perished

Long time ago.

Rock and tree and flowing water

Long time ago,

Bird and bee and blossom taught her

Love's spell to know.

While to my fond words she listen'd

Murmuring low,

Tenderly her blue eyes glisten'd

Long time ago.