It is well known that Sir Stanley was a man of very deep feelings. He suffered from great melancholy and this was at its worst when travelling a long way from his childhood sweetheart Dorothea Walcott. They were engaged to be married in the winter of 1870. When his father sent him on an expedition to Alaska (his father was a very successful businessman who had various projects in Europe and North America) he had to bid a very tearful farewell to Dorothea. It is said that he wrote this poem on his fiancee's handkerchief before drying it in the November breeze.
Tarry now a while my dear,
Tarry now a while.
Tarry long for all the year,
Tarry now a while.
Tarry while the grass is wet.
Tarry now it is dry.
Tarry as I laugh with thee,
Tarry whilst I cry.
Tarry here, then tarry there,
Tarry in my arms.
Tarry now without a care,
Tarry to my charms.
Tarry now a while my dear,
Tarry high and low.
Tarry with me ev'ry year.
Tarry. Do not go.
