Classic Poem

Lilies lightly come in spring
Where they find best blossoming:
Edwin's grandchild! rosy-pale,
When these lilies of the vale
Warm their hearts in thy soft hand,
Thou shalt see their buds expand
As one after April snows
Sees blue violets' eyes unclose.

Mine be only winter flowers,
Nursed through many sunless hours
In her chamber, late who lay
Dying many a bitter day,
Counting every stroke of bell
All night long, till morning fell
On her spirit — like a cloud;
Some of these lay on her shroud.

Take them! touch them — let them see
Those fair eyes, and straightway be
Fully blown; then kiss thy lips,
And their sweet breath in thy room.
Though the sun were in eclipse,
Shall be sunshine and perfume;
Touch but thy finger tips
My tender buds, and they will bloom.