Classic Poem

(The Titanic)

Decked as a bride with charms
She left her ancient isle
To come unto my arms —
I waited, mile on mile.

A maiden ship, all gay
With gilt and 'broidery,
She sang, upon her way,
" Neptune, I come to thee!"

But all the journey long
Spite of her revelry,
I heard her undersong,
" Nay, but I would be free!"

Then I sent curtseying hosts
To greet her as she came —
Soundless and white as ghosts
And terrible as flame.

They drew her to my side,
Fair in her wedding dress,
Where every lapping tide
Shall give her my caress.

*****

" God of all souls forlorn," —
The cry comes piteously
From hearts by anguish torn —
" Restore my dead to me!"