Dearest

I have loved thee fond and truly,
 In years that have passed away,
And I love thee now as dearly
 As upon our bridal day.


Yea, my heart is more thine own, dear,
 For I know thy priceless worth;
Of all, thou art the dearest,
 On this beautiful, bright earth.


In time of fiercest struggling,
 When cheerless was my life,
Thy, loving smile has armed me
 To conquer in the strife.


Thy voice of sweet encouragement
 Has nerved my fainting soul.
And brought me sweet contentment,
 And saved and made me whole.


So I love thee fond and truly, dear,
 And shall ever love thee so,
Until the messenger of death
 Has struck his fatal blow.