FORGIVE.
Reading edition
Forgive me dear, I did not know That words of mine wouldst cause thee woe. I love thee all too well to bring To thy dear heart the smallest sting. Thy life is all too sweet and pure To ever grief or pain endure. And evermore I’ll guard my speech, E’ermore my careless tongue I’ll teach To speak but loving words to thee, From caustic speech I will be free. The past is past. Wilt thou forget The words I spake when first we met? The thoughtless words that I then spake Will ever in my heart awake Remorse, and sorrow, deepest pain.— O must I plead to thee in vain? E’er more I’ll speak but love words, dear, For only love-words shouldst thou hear.