John Godfrey Saxe (1816–1887)

“SO far—so far!” Nay, Sweet! nor distant lands,

Nor breadth of waters can avail to bar

My love from thee. Alas! ’t is ever far,

To yearning hearts, the smallest space that stands

Beyond the compass of out-stretching hands;

And never near, how close soe’er to each

True lovers be, if kisses may not reach

Across the distance. Since harsh Fate commands,

Darling! farewell! With tearful eyes I go,

Unknowing when the glad return shall be;

But I will think, to mitigate my woe,

How loving souls of time and tide are free;

And oft to greet thee, dearest! mine, I know,

Exulting will o’erleap the sundering sea!