O sweet were the hours

O sweet were the hours

When in mirth's frolic throng

I led up the revels

With dance and with song;

When brisk from the fountain

And bright as the day,

My spirits o'erflow'd

And ran sparkling away!

Wine! Wine! Wine!

Come bring me wine to cheer me,

Friend of my heart!

Come pledge me high!

Wine! Till the dreams of youth

Again are near me,

Why must they leave me,

Tell me, why?

Return, ye sweet hours!

Once again let me see

Your airly light forms

Of enchantment and glee;

Come, give an old friend,

While he crowns his gay glass,

A nod as you part

And a smile as you pass

I cannot forget you,

I would not resign,

There's health in my pulse,

And a spell in my wine;

And sunshine in Autumn,

Tho' passing too soon,

Is sweeter and dearer

Than sunshine in June.