When the quiet moon is rising
By the ever-sounding sea,
While the golden stars are shining,
Mary, I will wait for thee.

When the folded flowers are sleeping,
Silent every bird and bee,
While the evening dews are weeping,
Mary, I will wait for thee.

When the light shines from the lattice,
Then I know thou'lt come to me ;
And my heart beats high and gladly,
Mary, as I wait for thee.

Wherefore tarry, wherefore linger,
While I sigh so wearily ?
Is not this our trysting hour ?
Mary, come, I wait for thee !

Silence reigns o'er vale and woodland;
But the murmur of the sea
Breaks upon my ear so calmly,
Mary, as I wait for thee.

Who is this so lightly tripping
O'er the moonlit grassy lea ?
Tis my loved one! 'tis my darling!
Mary, thou art come to me!