A Shropshire Lad - XXXIII

by A. E. Housman

    If truth in hearts that perish
    Could move the powers on high,
    I think the love I bear you
    Should make you not to die.

    Sure, sure, if stedfast meaning,
    If single thought could save,
    The world might end to-morrow,
    You should not see the grave.

    This long and sure-set liking,
    This boundless will to please,
    -Oh, you should live for ever
    If there were help in these.

    But now, since all is idle,
    To this lost heart be kind,
    Ere to a town you journey
    Where friends are ill to find.