University of Virginia Library

“SHE WAS NOT THERE.”

'Tis midnight deep—I came but now
From the close air of lighted halls;
And while I hold my aching brow
I gaze upon my dim-lit walls;
And, feeling here that I am free
To wear the look that suits my mood,
And let my thoughts flow back to thee,
I bless my tranquil solitude,
And bidding all thoughts else begone,
I muse upon thy love alone.
Yet was the music sweet to-night,
And fragrant odors fill'd the air,
And flowers were drooping in the light,
And lovely women wander'd there;
And fruits and wines with lavish waste
Were on the marble tables piled,
And all that tempts the eye and taste,
And sets the haggard pulses wild,
And wins from care, and deadens sadness,
Were there—but yet I felt no gladness.
I thought of thee—I thought of thee—
Each cunning change the music play'd,
Each fragrant breath that stole to me,
My wandering thought more truant made.
The lovely women pass'd me by,
The wit fell powerless on mine ear,
I look'd on all with vacant eye,
I did not see—I did not hear!
The skill'd musician's master-tone
Was sweet—thy voice were sweeter far!
They were soft eyes the lamps shone on—
The eyes I worship gentler are!
The halls were broad, the mirrors tall,
With silver lamps and costly wine—
I only thought how poor was all
To one low tone from lips like thine—
I only felt how well forgot
Were all the stars look on—and thy sweet eyes do not!