I had a friend whose soul was very fair,

His word was wisdom and his strength was sure;

His courage in the ills he had to bear

Made others strong and able to endure.

I asked no love, no tribute of the sense

For his companionship was recompense.

I thought I was beloved, but did not care,

He smiled on me as he on others smiled,

But one grey day a chill was in the air

And then to prove that I was Nature's child,

He spoke - "I do not love you very much-"

And all my friendship shattered at the touch.