Classic Poem

ROW gently here,
My gondolier,
— — — So softly wake the tide,
That not an ear,
On earth, may hear,
— — — But hers to whom we glide.
Had Heaven but tongues to speak, as well
— — — As starry eyes to see,
Oh think what tales 'twould have to tell
— — — Of wandering youths like me!

Now rest thee here,
My gondolier;
— — — Hush, hush, for up I go,
To climb yon light
Balcony's height,
— — — While thou keep'st watch below.
Ah! did we take for Heaven above
— — — But half such pains as we
Take, day and night, for woman's love,
— — — What angels we should be!