WHEN I’M NO MORE
Will yonder Orient flush with morning hue?
Will on the flowers shine the crystal dew
And Heaven retain its soft cerulean blue
When I’m no more?
Will yet the jasper ocean lap the beach
And woo the wildflower just beyond its reach?
Will yet the treebirds murmur each to each
When I’m no more?
Will yet the laughing brook keep on its way?
Will yet yon moon smile sadly o’er my clay
And those bright twinkling stars dance in the day
When I’m no more?
Will yet a smiling world salute the dawn
And still its course of love and joy flow on—
My image once some heart enshrined soon gone
When I’m no more?
What means this chill misgiving—fate or fear?
Death, rend the veil and calm this dark despair!
Say, tell me will this memory be dear
When I’m no more?
Ah Death, thy only kindness is the bliss
Of answer in love’s fondest parting kiss
That one at least my humbleness will miss
When I’m no more!