In wreaths and clusters—how they climb'd and swept

From vase to ceiling, with their gay festoons

Whispering each other in their mystic lore

Of fragrance, and consulting how to swell,

As best they might, the tide of happiness.

A few brief moons departed and I sought

The same abode. There was a gather'd throng

Beyond the threshold stone. A few white flowers

Crept o'er a bosom and a gentle hand

That clasp'd them not. A holy hymn awoke