The hope of happiness

by Meredith Nicholson

With these I’d thee endow.”

And Constance, slowly lifting her head, an enthralling picture of young trusting love, replied:

“I am a beggar in my heart!

My soul hath need of thee! Teach me thy ways,

And make me partner in thy wanderings,

And lead me to the silver springs of song,

I would be free as thou art, roam the world,

Away from clanging war, by murmuring streams,

Through green cool woodlands sweet with peace and love....

Wilt thou be faithful, wilt thou love me long?”