Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). An American Anthology, 1787–1900. 1900.

By Amy E.Leigh

1462 If I but Knew

IF I but knew what the tree-tops say,

Whispering secrets night and day,

I ’d make a song, my love, for you,

If I but knew—if I but knew.

If I but knew how the lilies brew

Nectar rare from a drop of dew,

A crystal glass I ’d fill for you,

If I but knew—if I but knew.

Love, if I knew but one tender word,

Sweet as the note of a wooing bird,

I ’d tell my ardent love to you,

If I but knew—if I but knew.