Light, and still lighter seemed that step to fall;

I scarce could tell you when it ceased, or how;

A breathing spirit walked the earth—’tis all—

That does not walk it now.

I think sometimes upon the sunny floor

I see the shadow of her golden hair;

And turn half-dreaming to the open door,

To look if she is there.

And then I mind. Life’s rough and thorny round

Would long ere this have torn the folded wing