BECAUSE OF THEE.
Because of thee, the earth is fair to see,
The dawn more radiant for it breathes of thee,
It gloweth deeper in the eastern skies
As dawneth love within thy beauteous eyes.
Because of thee, my heart a song doth sing,
Its cadence in mine ear doth ever ring
So dulcet sweet, and though thou art not near
I feel, and know in spirit, thou can’st hear.
Because of thee, weak words may not convey
The holy calm which comes at close of day;
When sunsets flame like seas of beaten gold
Ere night her spangled draperies hath unrolled.
Because of thee, upon the balmy air,
Pæans from every plumaged worshipper
Thrill all my soul, dear love, and seem to me
Each liquid note a message sent from thee.
Because of thee, the flowers more odorous still,
With subtle fragrance, waken at my will
Sweet memories of the perfume-laden dew
Of the old garden, redolent of you.
Because of thee, this longing heart of mine
Hath none but thee to dwell within its shrine,
Its sacred taper thou, a glorious light,
My lode-star like a splendid vision bright.
Because of thee, the stars seem all enwrought
With beauty which enriches every thought;
The moon, a golden chariot in which we
May circle space for all eternity.
Because of thee, as o’er life’s mighty deep,
We glide together, soft shall be thy sleep;
His hand will guide our barque to yonder shore
To live, Oh, love—true life for evermore.
