Classic Poem

Wretched Amintor with a flame
Too strong to be subdued,
A nymph above his rank and name
Still eagerly pursued.

To gain her every art he tried,
But no return procured,
Mistook her prudence for her pride,
Nor guessed what she endured.

Till prostrate at her feet one day
Urging in deep despair,
Thus softly was she heard to say,
Or sighed it to the air:

Witness ye secret cares I prove,
Which is the greater trial,
To sue for unrewarded love,
Or die by self-denial.