LIFE, I KNOW NOT WHAT THOU ART

LIFE! I know not what thou art, 
But know that thou and I must part; 
And when, or how, or where we met 
I own to me's a secret yet. 

   Life! We've been long together 
Through pleasant and through cloudy weather, 
'Tis hard to part when friends are dear, -- 
Perhaps 'twill cost a sigh, a tear; 
-- Then steal away, give little warning, 
   Choose thine own time; 
Say not Good Night, -- but in some brighter clime 
   Bid me Good Morning.