UNFELT , unseen, time steals away,
So softly with our years,
The dewy gem of op'ning day
Not swifter disappears.
In childhood's thoughtless, laughing hour;
He gaily passes by,
Like wild bees o'er the mountain flower,
That plunder as they fly.
Our budding joys, as if in scorn,
He blasts with envious care,
And bids remembrance leave her thorn
To tell they blossom'd there;
Whilst e'en to beauty's fond alarms
He plays a traitor's part,
And mocks the smile, whose magic charms
Had thought to win his heart.

Yet by the ruthless wand'rer's side
One lonely fair-one stays,
To all his steps the faithful guide,
In sad or prosp'rous days.
Where'er his hidden dart he throws
To pierce th' unguarded breast,
Her gentle hand the balm bestows
To lull its pangs to rest.
And when the wearied wing of time
Eternity shall close,
Friendship shall seek her native clime
In Heaven to repose.