Classic Poem

They seemed, to those who saw them meet,
— The casual 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 so long
— The goal of mutual bliss beside!

Yet what no chance could then reveal,
— And neither would be first to own,
Let fate and courage now conceal,
— When truth could bring remorse alone.