SWEET sisters, far away in space, but near
In love, to you this shapen thought I bring
As 'twere a jewel that might clasp or cling,
Well knowing that however it appear
To others poor, your loves will hold it dear;
And all the dearer that the song I sing
Is mine, and verily the only thing
That I can truly give of all my gear.

Sisters! None better than we three can know
Where absence tells on love, where tries in vain;
To hearts it cannot quell it worketh woe;
And thus I send o'er land and sea this chain
To bind your thoughts to me an hour or so
In links that shall be other than of pain.