University of Virginia Library


201

MY SONG

Yea, what shall be the ending of my song?
Oh, listening lady, what wilt thou bestow
Upon thy minstrel pale and worn, but strong,
With thoughts that burn, and eager lips that glow—
What fair reward shall I, thy singer, know,
Now that long years have listened to my voice
And heard thy praises through my numbers flow?
Dost thou not gladden, dost not thou rejoice?
Must death, with bosom colder than the snow,
Wait and be sole obedient bride to me,
And wilt thou ever turn aside and flee,
As through our separate lives, with footstep slow
We pace, uncertain what rewards may wait
Beyond death's bitter unresponsive gate?