But ere we part—O girl grown worldly-wise!—

I place one glory-rose amid your hair,

And kiss your lips, with something of despair:

For, Dear, I love you yet—and yet despise.

[49]
]
THE LEADEN HOOF.

What use to puff a blackened fire

Grown emberless within the grate?

What use to twang a damaged lyre

That’s only half articulate?

What use for dumb