I Feed a Flame Within by Madeleine Dring Lyrics

I feed a flame within which so torments me
That it both pains my heart, and yet contents me:
'Tis such a pleasing smart, and I so love it
That I had rather die than once remove it

Yet he for whom I grieve shall never know it
My heart does not betray nor my eyes show it
Not a sigh, nor a tear my pain discloses
But they fall silently like dew on roses

Thus, to prevent my love from being cruel
My heart's the sacrifice as it's the fuel
And while I suffer thus to give him quiet
My faith rewards my love though he deny it

On his eyes will I gaze, and there delight me
While I conceal my love no frown can fright me
To be more happy I dare not aspire
Nor can I fall more low mounting no higher