EVENSONG

Lay away the story,—

Though the theme is sweet,

There's a lack of something yet,

Leaves it incomplete:—

There's a nameless yearning—

Strangely undefined—

For a story sweeter still

Than the written kind.

Therefore read no longer—

I've no heart to hear

But just something you make up,

O my mother dear.—

With your arms around me,

Hold me, folded-eyed,—

Only let your voice go on—

I'll be satisfied.

"Therefore read no longer."