University of Virginia Library


284

PRE-EXISTENCE

Once, and beyond recollection,
Once, ere the skies were unfurled,
These an immortal affection
Found at the birth of the world.
Earth was not yet, nor the golden
Vault of the dawn and the dew;
These in a home unbeholden
Loved and were true.
Heard ye how each from the other
Drank interchangeable life?
Call ye them sister or brother,
Husband, or lover, or wife?
Names of an earthly affection
Are not so close or so dear;
Spirits beyond recollection
Loved, and are here.