Forever Unconfessed

They seemed to those who saw them meet The worldly friends of every day, Her smile was undisturbed and sweet, His courtesy was free and gay. But yet if one the other’s name In some unguarded moment heard, The heart you thought so calm and tame, Would struggle like a captured bird: And letters of mere formal phrase Were blistered with repeated tears,— And this was not the work of days, But had gone on for years and years! Alas, that Love was not too strong For maiden shame and manly pride! Alas, that they delayed too long The goal of mutual bliss beside. Yet what chance could then reveal, And neither would be first to own, Let fate and courage now conceal, When truth could bring remorse alone.

Collection: 
English
1829
Richard Monckton Milnes, Lord Houghton
Sub Title: 
V. Cautions and Complaints

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