The while you clasp me closer,

The while I press you deeper,

As safe we chuckle,—under breath,

Yet all the slyer, the jocoser,—

"So, life can boast its day, like leap-year,

Stolen from death!"

Ah me—the sudden terror!

Hence quick—avaunt, avoid me,

You cheat, the ghostly flesh-disguised!

Nay, all the ghosts in one! Strange error!