Betrothed.
Dear, as I listen to your voice, Love’s light1
Falls in full glory over all the land ;2
And I ? I scarce can see. With trembling hand3
I needs must shade my eyes, since all too bright4
The dazzling radiance shines. Through shadowy night5
Erst I looked up, and longed but for a strand6
Of light from some dim star ; at your command,7
Lo, day breaks, with no dawning, on my sight !8
Deem me not cold, beloved, but only slow9
To realise how my poor life is blest.10
Thus hold my hands in yours until they grow11
Warm in your clasp ; and thus, dear, let me rest—12
All the sweet peace of Love at last to know—13
Here with my glad face hidden on your breast !14