OLD COMPTON STREET
Through London rain her people flow,
And Pleasure trafficks to and fro.
A gemmy splendour fills the town,
And robes her in a spangled gown
Through which no sorry wound may show.
But with the dusk my fancies go
To that grey street I used to know,
Where Love once brought his heavy crown
Through London rain!
And ever, when the day is low,
And stealthy clouds the night forethrow,
I quest these ways of dear renown,
And pray, while Hope in tears I drown,
That once again her face may glow,
Through London rain!