The Poetry Corner

I Loved You, Once

By George Parsons Lathrop

And did you think my heart Could keep its love unchanging, Fresh as the buds that start In spring, nor know estranging? Listen! The buds depart: I loved you once, but now - I love you more than ever. 'T is not the early love; With day and night it alters, And onward still must move Like earth, that never falters For storm or star above. I loved you once; but now - I love you more than ever. With gifts in those glad days How eagerly I sought you! Youth, shining hope, and praise: These were the gifts I brought you. In this world little stays: I loved you once, but now - I love you more than ever. A child with glorious eyes Here in our arms half sleeping - So passion wakeful lies; Then grows to manhood, keeping Its wistful, young surprise: I loved you once, but now - I love you more than ever. When age's pinching air Strips summer's rich possession, And leaves the branches bare, My secret in confession Still thus with you I'll share: I loved you once, but now - I love you more than ever.