Volume Ii Part 35 (2/2)

To the dance and to the wake Still I go but for your sake, O my share of the world!

Just to see your face awhile Meet your eyes and win your smile.

And the gay word on my lip Never lets my secret slip To my share of the world!

Light my feet trip over the green-- But my heart cries in the keen!

My poor mother sighs anew When my looks go after you, O my share of the world!

And my father's brow grows black When you smile and turn your back.

I would part with wealth and ease, I would go beyond the seas, For my share of the world!

I would leave my hearth and home If he only whispered ”Come!”

Houseless under sun and dew, I would beg my bread with you, O my share of the world!

Houseless in the snow and storm, Your heart's love would keep me warm.

I would pray and I would crave To be with you in the grave, O my share of the world!

I would go through fire and flood, I would give up all but G.o.d For my share of the world!

Alice Furlong [1875-

SONG

A lake and a fairy boat To sail in the moonlight clear,-- And merrily we would float From the dragons that watch us here!

Thy gown should be snow-white silk, And strings of orient pearls, Like gossamers dipped in milk, Should twine with thy raven curls.

Red rubies should deck thy hands, And diamonds be thy dower-- But fairies have broke their wands, And wis.h.i.+ng has lost its power!

Thomas Hood [1799-1845]

”SMILE AND NEVER HEED ME”

Though, when other maids stand by, I may deign thee no reply, Turn not then away, and sigh,-- Smile, and never heed me!

If our love, indeed, be such As must thrill at every touch, Why should others learn as much?-- Smile, and never heed me!

Even if, with maiden pride, I should bid thee quit my side, Take this lesson for thy guide,-- Smile, and never heed me!

But when stars and twilight meet, And the dew is falling sweet, And thou hear'st my coming feet,-- Then--thou then--mayst heed me!

Charles Swain [1801-1874]

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