I dreamed it would be nameless bliss,
As I loved, loved to be;
Ant to this object did I press
As blind as eagerly.
But wide as pathless was the space
That lay our lives, between,
And dangerous as the foamy race
Of ocean-surges green.
And haunted as a robber-path
Through wilderness of wood;
For Might and Right, and Woe ant Wrath,
Between our spirits stood.
I dangers dared; I hindrances scorned:
I omens did defy:
Whatever menaced, harassed, warned,
I passed impetuous by.
On sped my rainbow, last as light;
I flew as in a dream;
For glorious rose upon my sight
That child of Shower and Gleam.
Still bright on clouds of suffering dim
Shines that soft, solemn joy;
Nor care I now how dense and grim
Disasters gather nigh.
I care not in this moment sweet.
Thouug all I have rushed o'er
Should come on pinion, strong and fleet,
Proclaiming vengeance sore:
Though haughty Hate should strike me down,
Right bar approach to me, And grinding
Might with furious frown,
Swear endless enmity.
My love has placed her little hand
With noble faith in mine,
And vowed that wedlock's sacred band
Our nature shall entwine.
My love has swyrn, with sealing kiss,
With me to live — to die;
I have at last my nameless bliss;
As I love — loved am I.