Separation
by John L. Stoddard

Who knows if we shall meet again?
Behind each parting lurks a fear;
We smile to hide the haunting pain–
The rising tear.

You tell me we shall meet, but where?
The way is dark, the world is wide.
I only know, in my despair,
Our paths divide.

You say that we shall meet, but how?
The years slip by and make us old;
‘Tis easy to forget love’s vow,
If hearts grow cold.

Why part then, if we do not know?
(Dear God, if one of us should die!)
I cannot, dare not let thee go;
Say not, “Good-bye!”