Rose in the Prince’s throat this sudden tide,
“And I,—I also know where Love doth hide!”
Yet still the seals were ever on his mouth;
No heart, save one, his joy and dole might share.
Passed on the winter’s rain and summer’s drouth;
Friends more and more, and lovers true, the pair,
Though life its passion and its youth had spent,
Still kept their faith as seasons came and went.
One final hour, with stammering voice and halt,
The Prince said: “Dear, for you,—whose only gain