ANNIE, my first-born, gentle child, My tender, fragile flower; Why twines thy image round my heart, With such mysterious power? Is it because thy infant wail The icy barrier moved, That bound my soul's affections fast? I knew 'twas mine I loved. A mother's love no tongue can tell -- How boundless is that sea! 'Twas never mine; her spirit fled, As she gave birth to me. Annie, I gave to thee, my child, The love my heart could yield; God grant its influence o'er thee cast From all life's ills a shield. |