University of Virginia Library


89

A FOOTSTEP.

Within my mind there is a garden: part
Sprung from the greenest stray-aways of Spring
In a dewy time: part by long labouring
Of toilful Love, and many a culturing art
Learn'd of skill'd Grief in patientness of heart,
Nor without weariness, wrought. Deep-blossoming
Growths of long-planted pain cold shadow fling,
Sun-proof to every casual golden dart,
Over one aspect of this haunt. Elsewhere
Full sunlight sleeps for ever. Many a day
I lose myself about this quiet place,
Following one footstep ever the same way.
Dear, 'tis thy ghostly footstep that I trace,
But thee thyself I find not here nor there.