My dearest dear, the time has come
When you and I must part
And no one knows the inner grief
Of my poor aching heart
Or what I suffer, oh, for your sake
The one I love most dear
I wish that I could go with you
Or you could tarry here
I wish my breast were made of glass
Wherein you might behold
Your name in secret I have writ
In letters of fine gold
Your name in secret, oh, I have writ
Believe me when I say
That you are the one I will adore
Until my dying day
The blackest crow that ever flew
Would surely turn to white
If ever I prove false to you
Bright day would turn to night
Bright day would turn to night, my dear
The elements will mourn
If ever I prove false to you
The seas will rage and burn
So when you’re on some distant shore
Think on your absent friend
And when the wind blows high and clear
Oh, a line or two pray send
And when the wind blows high and clear
Pray send your love to me
That I may know by your hand writ
How time has gone with thee