In vain the tears of anguish flow

In vain the tears of anguish flow,

In vain I mourn, in vain I sigh,

For he, alas, will never know

That I must live for him or die.

Ah, could I dare myself reveal,

Would not my tale his pity move?

And sighs of pity seldom fail

In noble hearts to waken love.

But should he view without a tear

My alt'ring form, my waning bloom,

Then what is left me but despair?

What refuge but the silent tomb?