Popular Music Of The Olden Time Vol 2

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REIGN OF CHARLES II. TO WILLIAM III.		605

PORTSMOUTH. This tune is contained in the eleventh and subsequent editions of The Dancing Master. I have not succeeded in finding the words, although there appears but little doubt of its having been a ballad-tune,—perhaps to some sailor's parting with his love at Portsmouth. The following words were written to the air by Mr. John Oxenford:—



V;iin thought! the moments fly, love,- A.11 are nearly gone; Alas! too soon shall I, love, Find myself alone. But still my eyes to seek thee Will wildly gaze around : Hard heart, will nothing break thee ? Art with iron bound ?	Nay, do not bid me hope, love,— Hope I cannot bear; Nay, rather 1st me cope, love, Boldly with despair. Should thoughts that may deceive me Within my heart be nurs'd ? No,—leave me, dearest—leave me, Now I know the worst.