University of Virginia Library


136

XX.
INVINCIBLE

Because I know that I can reach thee quite
And draw thy heart to my heart by a word,—
Because thy sun-compelling glance of light,
Tender for me, thy secret hath averred,—
Because the winds and the eternal night
Brow-wreathed with stars, our passion's voice have heard,—
Because the old strange dream is ever bright
And valid, though the months and years have erred,—
Because God, when he gives, will give with might,
In that so long our rapture he deferred,—
Because two meetings have sunk out of sight,
But time himself shall tremble at our third:—
Because this is the truth, our souls defy
Grief's serried spears and death's malignity.
1876.