Love not the world; around its form
Deception's veil is flung,

And even friendship's kindest words,

Are oft in mockery sung;

The heart that once its tale of love,
With blushing rapture told,―
How soon unmindful of its vows,-
How passionless and cold!

Love not the world; its boasted joys
Are sorrows in disguise;

Its peace is strife, its pleasure pain,
Its favor, weeping eyes;

A storm succeeds the morn which broke
With beauty, life and light,

And disappointment withers all

That once was fair and bright.

Love not the world; its fairest flowers

Are sure to droop and die ;

And hope's bright bowers, by fancy reared,

Will soon in ruin lie;

The friends who now around us move,

The faithful and the true,

Will soon extend the parting hand,

And speak the sad adieu.