Songs Of Old Ireland (Version For Voice & Orchestra): No. 2, Emer’S Farewell To Cucullain

O might a maid confess her secret longing 
To one who dearly loves, but may not speak! 
Alas! I had not hidden to thy wronging 
A bleeding heart beneath a smiling cheek 
I had not stemmed my bitter tears from starting
And thou had'st learned my bosom's dear distress
And half the pain, the cruel pain of parting
Had passed, Cucullin, in thy fond caress

But go! Connacia's hostile trumpets call thee
Thy chariot mount and ride the ridge of war
And prove whatever feat of arms befall thee
The hope and pride of Emer of Lismore
Ah, then return, my hero, girt with glory
To knit my virgin heart so near to thine
That all who seek thy name in Erin's story
Shall find its loving letters linked with mine"