Classic Poem

Black was his face
With the dust of the pit,
But bright as hot coals
His eyes burned in it

The first time I felt
His gaze fixed on me,
And wondering turned
Half-frightened to see

The fire of his heart
That paled the sunshine
Blazing out of the eyes
That looked into mine,

Till an answering flame
In my bosom was lit
By those eyes burning out
From the mirk of the pit.