I would not die in Summer time

I would not die in Summer time

When hearts are light and free,

And joy is borne from every clime

O'er mountain, stream and lea.

I would not leave the friends I know,

Beguiled of hope and cheer,

To lose in burning tears of woe

The glad time of the year.

Oh! no, I would not pass away

When from the leafy grove,

The red bird carols all the day

Its song of joy and love;

When merry warblers trill their notes

From every bush and tree,

And on the breeze, an anthem floats

Of heaven-born melody.

I would not die in Summertime,

And lie within the tomb,

When blushing fruits are in their prime,

And fields are in their bloom;

For I would reap the yellow grain

And bind it in the sheeves;

Then die when Autumn winds complain

Among the blighted leaves.