I HAVE returned—so many times a ghost
Whom still elusive Memory pursues
With hint of many a sea and many a coast
I have adventured on in my long cruise.

I have returned. Yet none, at sight of me,
Cries out: “Why dost thou walk these ways again,
Since, being spirit, thou wert surely free,
And all among the Blessed couldst remain?”

I have returned. For free I am not yet—
Where was it taught me that I must return,
As one who goes unlightened of some debt,
And seeks, each way, how he may payment earn?

I have forgotten where or how incurred—
That debt which still from life to life I bear.
But, like a bond, unto the Final Word,
It shall be paid—and I need take no care.

I have returned. Nor am I sad or glad
To be once more in this old House of Earth;
I repossess all that I erstwhile had,
Save this—and this—and this,—too little worth.

I have returned. For it was in the Scheme …
But when I meet thee, Best-beloved, I start,
As though, awakening, one might hold one's dream,
For, in whatever life I move, thou art!

I have returned. And thou, too, hast returned.
Thou dost not know this truth, nor ever may.
Be Love as a sweet lesson newly learned—
Though learned by me our farthest natal day!