John Ireland - The Vain Desire

If truth in hearts that perish
Could move the powers on high
I think the love I bear you
Should make you not to die

Sure, sure, if stedfast meaning
If single thought could save
The world might end tomorrow
You should not see the grave

This long and sure-set liking
This boundless will to please
- Oh, you should live for ever
If there were help in these

But now, since all is idle
To this lost heart be kind
Ere to a town you journey
Wherе friends are ill to find