Classic Poem

Hush the homeless baby's crying,
Tender Sleep!
Every folded violet
May the outer storm forget.
Those wet lids with kisses drying,
Through them creep.

Soothe the soul that lies thought-weary,
Murmurous Sleep;
Like a hidden brooklet's song,
Rippling gorgeous woods among,
Tinkling down the mountains dreary,
White and steep.

Breathe thy balm upon the lonely,
Gentle Sleep;
As the twilight breezes bless
With sweet scents the wilderness:
Ah, let warm, white dove-wings only
Round them sweep!

O'er the aged pour thy blessing,
Holy Sleep;
Like a soft and ripening rain,
Falling on the yellow grain:
For the glare of suns oppressing,
Pitying weep!

On thy still seas met together,
Charmed Sleep;
Hear them swell a drowsy hymning,
Swans to silvery music swimming,
Floating with unruffled feather
O'er the deep.