Classic Poem

Long ago I wander'd oft
In the golden land of dreams;
Joyous birds and breezes soft
Answer'd back the purling streams.

Endless summer, leafy, cool,
Smiling from the Heaven above
Over wood and still dark pool,
Hill and meadow, whisper'd love.

Gentle sleep, a spirit bright,
With me thither wing'd her way;
Hand in hand we fled the night,
Sought and found a glorious day.

Gentle sleep, where art thou fled?
Gloomy night is round, but thou
Visit'st not my weary bed,
Where are dreamland pleasures now?

Sleep thou hast a brother stern,
Rest he gives, but takes the breath;
Shall I to thy brother turn,
Faithless sleep, and call on Death?

Will he lead me far away
To a land as fair as thine?
Many know, but none may say;
Soon that secret will be mine.