My Love's Gift.

You ask me what--since we must part--     You shall bring home to me;     Bring back a pure and faithful heart,     As true as mine to thee.     I ask not wealth nor fame,     I only ask for thee,     Thyself--and that dear self the same--     My love, bring back to me!     You talk of gems from foreign lands,     Of treasure, spoil, and prize.     Ah, love! I shall not search your hands,     But look into your eyes.     I ask not wealth nor fame,     I only ask for thee,     Thyself--and that dear self the same--     My love, bring back to me!     You speak of glory and renown,     With me to share your pride,     Unbroken faith is all the crown     I ask for as your bride.     I ask not wealth nor fame,     I only ask for thee,     Thyself--and that dear self the same--     My love, bring back to me!     You bid me with hope's eager gaze     Behold fair fortune come.     I only dream I see your face     Beside the hearth at home.     I ask not wealth nor fame,     I do but ask for thee!     Thyself--and that dear self the same--     May God restore to me!