[Verse 1]
And so you have come back to me
And say the old love's growin' yet
You tried through all these weary years
You tried too vainly to forget

[Chorus]
Oh no, I cannot take your hand
God never gives us back our youth
The loving heart you slighted then
Was yours, my friend, in perfect truth

[Verse 2]
Come close and let me see your face
Your raven hair is tinged with snow
Oh yes, it is the same dear face
I loved so many years ago

[Chorus]
Oh no, I cannot take your hand
God never gives us back our youth
The loving heart you slighted then
Was yours, my friend, in perfect truth

[Verse 3]
Farewell, I think I love you yet
As friend to friend, God bless you dear
And guide you through these weary years
To where the skies are always clear
[Chorus]
Oh no, I cannot take your hand
God never gives us back our youth
The loving heart you slighted then
Was yours, my friend, in perfect truth

[Fiddle Solo]

[Chorus]
Oh no, I cannot take your hand
God never gives us back our youth
The loving heart you slighted then
Was yours, my friend, in perfect truth