Oh sweet were the hours lyrics

Oh sweet were the hours, when in mirth's frolic throng

I led up the revels with dance and with song

When brisk from the fountain, and bright as the day

My spirits o'erflow'd, and ran sparkling away!

Wine! Come bring me wine to cheer me

Friend of my heart! Come pledge me high!

Wine! Till the dreams of youth again are near me

Why must they leave me, tell me, why?

Return, ye sweet hours! Once again let me see

Your airly light forms of enchantment and glee

Come, give an old friend, while he crowns his gay glass

A nod as you part and a smile as you pass

Wine! Come bring me wine to cheer me

Friend of my heart! Come pledge me high!

Wine! Till the dreams of youth again are near me

Why must they leave me, tell me, why?

I cannot forget you, I would not resign

There's health in my pulse, and a spell in my wine!

And sunshine in autumn, tho' passing too soon

Is sweeter and dearer than sunshine in June

Wine! Come bring me wine to cheer me

Friend of my heart! Come pledge me high!

Wine! Till the dreams of youth again are near me

Why must they leave me, tell me, why?