It is not because your heart is mine--mine only -Mine alone;It is not because you chose me,weak and lonely,For your own;Not because the earth is fairer,and the skies Spread above you Are more radiant for the shining of your eyes -That I love you!

It is not because the world's perplexed meaning Grows more clear;And the Parapets of Heaven,with angels leaning,Seem more near;And Nature sings of praise with all her voices Since yours spoke,Since within my silent heart,that now rejoices,Love awoke!

Nay,not even because your hand holds heart and life;At your will Soothing,hushing all its discord,making strife Calm and still;Teaching Trust to fold her wings,nor ever roam From her nest;Teaching Love that her securest,safest home Must be Rest.

But because this human Love,though true and sweet -Yours and mine

-Has been sent by Love more tender,more complete,More divine;That it leads our hearts to rest at last in Heaven,Far above you;Do I take you as a gift that God has given --And I love you!