The Complete Poems of Christina Rossetti A variorum edition: Edited, with textual notes and introductions, by R. W. Crump |
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To Lalla, reading my verses topsy-turvy. |
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 | The Complete Poems of Christina Rossetti |  |
To Lalla, reading my verses topsy-turvy.
Darling little Cousin,
With your thoughtful look
Reading topsy-turvy
From a printed book
With your thoughtful look
Reading topsy-turvy
From a printed book
English hieroglyphics,
More mysterious
To you, than Egyptian
Ones would be to us;—
More mysterious
To you, than Egyptian
Ones would be to us;—
Leave off for a minute
Studying, and say
What is the impression
That those marks convey?
Studying, and say
What is the impression
That those marks convey?
Only solemn silence,
And a wondering smile:
But your eyes are lifted
Unto mine the while.
And a wondering smile:
But your eyes are lifted
Unto mine the while.
In their gaze so steady
I can surely trace
That a happy spirit
Lighteth up your face.
I can surely trace
That a happy spirit
Lighteth up your face.
Tender, happy spirit,
Innocent and pure;
Teaching more than science,
And than learning more.
Innocent and pure;
Teaching more than science,
And than learning more.
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How should I give answer
To that asking look?
Darling little Cousin
Go back to your book.
To that asking look?
Darling little Cousin
Go back to your book.
Read on: if you knew it,
You have cause to boast:—
You are much the wisest,
Though I know the most.
You have cause to boast:—
You are much the wisest,
Though I know the most.
| The Complete Poems of Christina Rossetti | |