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J. C. L. Clark, Esq.
from
Bertram Dobell
The Test of Love
Possession is of love the test,
(If not the only one the best,)
For if it faithful be and real,
Not founded on a false ideal,
Possession but confirms its power,
Which lasts whatever storms may lower:
But false love quicklier dies away
Than sunshine on an April day,
Leaving a rain of scalding tears,
Reproaches, jealousies, & fears,
Perpetual bickerings & strife
That make a tragic farce of life.
Possession is of love the test,
(If not the only one the best,)
For if it faithful be and real,
Not founded on a false ideal,
Possession but confirms its power,
Which lasts whatever storms may lower:
But false love quicklier dies away
Than sunshine on an April day,
Leaving a rain of scalding tears,
Reproaches, jealousies, & fears,
Perpetual bickerings & strife
That make a tragic farce of life.
Mar. 29, 1904
