Classic Poem

FOR NORA .

Pearls for my pearl;
White as the snow of her gentle breast,
Pure as the thoughts in her heart at rest —
Pearls for my pearl.

Flowers for my flower;
Lilies, fresh culled where the water flows;
Roses, to crown my one sole rose —
Flowers for my flower.

Birds for my bird;
To twitter and list, with eye askant,
Her rivalling voice in song or chant —
Birds for my bird.

God of the lone!
Left in my life's fair morning-tide
With but this child, I crouch beside
Thy mercy's throne;

And folding close
Her curly head on my broken heart,
Checking my sobs lest I make her start
With my bitter woes,

To Thee I cry!
Long is the way, and black and wide
Gathers the tempest. Be our Guide,
Thou Lord Most High —

Till from the swirl
Of earth, secure in heaven's repose,
Angels bring roses for my rose,
Pearls for my pearl!