Classic Poem

Take my message, Dorcas, pray;
Once and twice and three times say
All that's in it: do not stay,
Hasten, Dorcas, haste away.

Nay a moment, Dorcas — wait:
Why so quick to close the gate?
Let me all my tale relate.

Add to what you just have read: —
Nay! I'm going off my head —
Tell her nothing. Or instead
Tell her, Dorcas, all I've said.

Tell her all: be sure you do —
Yet what need have I of you?
I myself am coming too.