The Lilies

1

I dreamed that, from a low-walled mountain road,
I looked adown a long and dangerous steep,
Where 'mid rough stones and grass the waters flowed
Of a slow stream — so slow — it seemed to sleep.

2

Beside the rill a knot of flow'rs was growing
Like water-lilies, graceful, broad, and white;
Methought I clomb the wall, and fast was going
To pluck the lilies, fair and fresh and bright.

3

Downward, in spite of fear, my way I wound
To reach the spot whereon, it seemed, they grew:
But there arrived alas! I nothing found
Save mountain weeds of common form and line.

4

'Twas but a dream — yet ah! my soul, take heed
Lest such a dream thy waking hours portray.
How oft we hasten with but little speed
To gather blooms that vanish swift away!

5

The lilies blooming on the rough hill side
Are like vain wishes that my heart have cheated
Eager I've sought them, from afar descried,
But ah! ere I could reach them they have fleeted.