RECOMPENSE

Not if I chose from a world of days

Could I find a day like this.

The sky is a wreath of azure haze

And the sea an azure bliss.

The surf runs racing the young salt wind,

Shouting without a fear

Over reef, bar, cliff and scaur,

Where you and I lie near.

O you and I who have watched the sky

And sea from many a shore!

You, love, and I who will live and die —

And watch the sea no more!

O joy of the world! Joy of love,

Joy that can say to death,

“Tho you end all with your wanton pall,

We two have had this breath!”